Community Mural Painting

WHY:
As one of three We the Many pilot programs, Art on the Prairie has been grateful to Arts Midwest and the Andrew W. Mellon Foundation for the opportunity to explore what it means to be a Midwesterner through the creative exchange of voices, cultures, and ideas. We are equally appreciative of extension funding to further our goals and expand relationships forged within our community.

Carrying on from programming in 2020-2022, Art on the Prairie has commissioned artists Jimmy Navarro and Katie Jensen for the creation and installation of a public art mural in Perry’s historic downtown. It is our vision that this will not only add vibrancy to our community but a visual component to our rich storytelling tradition.

Des Moines artists Jimmy Navarro and Katie Jensen will lead the project as our artists in residence, including the coordination of community engagement. Both have experience painting public murals in Iowa, including at the Iowa State Fair and the Johnston Town Center, as well working with students to collaborate in the process.

The Art on the Prairie mural will depict a Dallas County prairie landscape in a style reminiscent of stained glass. We the Many represents the many individual stories that connect, bridge, and blend together through commonality and finding common ground. Much like a stained glass mosaic with many individual pieces, our diverse community is stronger with many individual connections. Similarly, the diversity of a prairie’s ecosystem is the key to its sustainability and long-term success. Just as prairie roots grow deep, so too, do the roots of Community in a small town.

Once complete, the mural will stretch approximately 75 feet wide near the intersection of 2nd Street and Warford Street. Due to the size of the wall and its location at second-story height, the mural will be painted on panels and then installed. This provides a unique opportunity for community participation! Art on the Prairie invites community members to attend a Community Mural Painting event on Saturday, October 21st from 1pm to 4pm at the Town/Craft Center (1122 Willis Avenue). Attendees can pick up a paint brush and contribute to the mural or simply enjoy watching the progress! Additional opportunities for students to participate will be available. Installation planned before Art on the Prairie Festival (November 11&12).

We the Many is a project of Arts Midwest with generous support
from The Andrew W. Mellon Foundation and in partnership with the Indiana Arts Commission, Iowa Arts Council, and South Dakota Arts Council.

Questions? Email ARTonthePrairiePerry@gmail.com