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Albany Convention Center Authority Unveils “Nothing but Flowers” Courtyard Mural

The Albany Convention Center Authority (ACCA), in partnership with the Albany Center Gallery (ACG), today unveiled “Nothing but Flowers,” a new public art feature by artist Michael Conlin measuring 52 feet tall by 86 feet wide at the Albany Capital Center (ACC)’s expansion project at 126 State Street. Painted in just over a week, the project represents the ACCA’s commitment to elevating quality of place and cultural vitality in historic downtown Albany.

“This mural celebrates Albany’s arts community and the growth taking shape at the Albany Capital Center,” said Monica Kurzejeski, executive director and CEO of the Albany Convention Center Authority. “Our partnership with Albany Center Gallery brings local art into a welcoming space for visitors and our downtown community.”

“Albany is where I explored my work as an artist, and it is home to many of my friends and family,” said Conlin. “The flowers symbolize growth and renewal. I hope this mural celebrates a new beginning for downtown Albany.”

“We are excited to celebrate Conlin’s ‘Nothing but Flowers’ mural and our continued partnership with the Albany Convention Center Authority,” said Tony Iadicicco, curator and executive director of Albany Center Gallery. “Public art has the power to transform spaces, create memorable moments and bring people together. Every blank canvas is an opportunity to see an artist’s vision come to life and share a story with the community. ‘Nothing but Flowers’ is a celebration of Albany, our community and the connections we share. The flowers feel like a gesture of appreciation, while the idea of planting, growing and creating together speaks to the energy of what public art can do. We’re proud to keep bringing more art everywhere and to see these partnerships and ideas grow throughout Albany and beyond.”

The courtyard is part of the ACC’s expansion at 126 State Street. The expansion is expected to be completed in early 2027.

“Premier convention centers are about more than the four walls of a meeting space. They’re about creating experiences people remember,” said Shannon Licygiewicz, CEM, general manager of the Albany Capital Center. “‘Nothing but Flowers’ brings that idea to life in such a fun and meaningful way. This point of entry only steps from State Street adds color, personality and a strong sense of place to our new courtyard, while giving our guests a chance to experience more of the creativity that makes Albany special.”

“Nothing but Flowers” is the third mural completed at the ACC in 2026 through the partnership between the ACCA and ACG.