By Brad Ziegler and Kathy Feist
The public art scene in Martin City took another step forward two weeks ago with the completion of a new mural painted on the east side of The Martin Event Space at the corner of 135th Street and Holmes Road.
The mural was commissioned by the Martin City Community Improvement District (CID). Vickie Wolverton, the District Manager, said that “the CID is excited to bring the mural to Martin City.” “The mural is more than just art, it’s a vibrant celebration of Martin City’s history and character,” she says. “It not only beautifies Martin City, it also draws people to the community to support local businesses.”
The mural depicts a steam locomotive and an old West streetscape. “We tried to find an old photo of Martin City, but just couldn’t find one,” says Wolverton. Rather than being historically correct, the artwork captures the spirit of the community.
Springfield artist Andrea Ehrhardt created the mural and has painted more than 60 other public murals across five continents around the world, including one at Spicin’ Foods on Southwest Boulevard
Ehrhardt’s creation adds to the diverse collection of more than 200 murals located throughout the metropolitan area. The installations highlight the area’s history and culture, promote local business and sports teams, and create interactive opportunities for local selfie aficionados and those who are visiting the city.
The new mural on The Martin is just the latest public art installation in Martin City. The west wall of the Coast to Coast Pub was adorned with a vibrant undersea mural.
Sidelines Custom Floral Designs added a large painted bouquet of flowers on its outside wall nearly five years ago.
The Running Well Store added a colorful mural by Steve Hannigan on the front of their store on 135th Street when they first moved in.
The Martin City CID had been working for some time on ways to bring greater identity to the district. With the installation of the mural, and the support from the mural’s host, The Martin event center’s owners Rachel and Eric Long, they were able to achieve much of their goal.
The CID has plans to continue to expand the public art offerings in the district and has an upcoming project planned for the west wall of the State Farm office building that was recently purchased and renovated by agent Alexa Barkey. RFPs are being prepared but a timeline for installation of the mural has not been set.
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