Painting event in Lawrence: Design the new street mural with us!

Painting event in Lawrence: Design the new street mural with us!

Next week, Lawrence Community Nursery School will host an exciting event celebrating the creativity and community spirit of Lawrence residents. On Saturday, September 9, from 1 to 5 p.m. and Sunday, September 10, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., everyone is invited to participate in a mural painting event that will take place at the intersection of Seventh and Alabama Streets. Organized by the school, this event will not only be a place of art, but also a celebration of community that welcomes everyone.

The mural, designed by local artist Dave Loewenstein, will feature a magnificent box turtle — Kansas' state reptile — at the center, surrounded by a series of images inspired by students' drawings. This creative process is particularly important because it encourages students to bring their experiences and ideas into the design. School officials will sketch the mural on Saturday morning to enable community painting projects.

Artistic community and local traditions

The event is part of a larger trend in Kansas, where nearly 500 murals are beautifying public spaces and celebrating local history and community pride. These large-scale works of art can be found not only on urban buildings but also on rural silos, attracting tourists and inspiring artists. One example is the “Destination: Home” mural in Kinsley, unveiled in 2024 and paying homage to music icon Freedy Johnston. Murals in Kansas that do not require licenses or permits are proliferating and helping to increase tourism and civic pride, reports Travel Kansas.

Many new, large exterior murals have been created since 2020, especially in rural regions. Mindy Allen, a well-known muralist, reinforces this observation and shows that such projects not only encourage creativity but can also boost the local economy. A good example is Clay Center, where donations have already created 32 murals and raised over $350,000.

Joint efforts for art and culture

The Office of Rural Prosperity in Kansas supports the creation of such works of art by providing communities up to $15,000 to support murals or public artwork that reflect the community's history and culture. According to the Department of Commerce, interested communities can request resources and support for their mural projects, highlighting the importance of art and community connection. For example, applications for the Rural Murals program are always welcome to strengthen creative exchange and culture, although applications are not currently being accepted.

The mural event at Lawrence Community Nursery School will also feature a variety of activities, including playground access and a food truck. Additionally, on Sunday from 2 to 3 p.m. there will be a performance by the band Zydeco Tougeau, which will make the atmosphere of the event lively and cheerful.

The event is open not only to the school community but to the entire neighborhood and invites everyone to network together and celebrate the local art scene. Be there to experience this creative process and community connection up close!