Highland Ave Mural Captures Local Symbols
November 2, 2026
• The new art installation is located at 1299 Highland Ave.
For those traveling to or from Needham Center, an art piece aims to remind them of elements unique to Needham.
Artist and Wellesley College professor David Teng Olsen recently completed “The Accidental Artist,” a mural that includes references to Needham figures, sights and symbols. A reference to astronaut Sunita Williams, the Needham High School Rockets, Echo Bridge and more are woven into the artwork.
Olsen painted his original design with a sponsorship from the Needham Council for Arts and Culture, which received financial support from the property’s owners, The Grossman Companies.
The mural faces Highland Avenue near the intersection of May Street and Chapel Street. The town plans to hold a ribbon-cutting later this fall.
Our Special Projects Producer Derick Risner stopped by as Olsen worked on the art piece earlier this fall. Here are some photos and stills from his visit.
