The Lewis Park walkway behind the outdoor pool has a new water themed mural.
The Comox Valley Community Arts Council administered the mural with assistance from the City of Courtenay as part of their Artist and Youth Mentorship program. The Arts Council recruited two guest artist mentors to work with local youth on the painting of the mural.
The mural painting was started on Aug. 13, and completed in only five days.
Jen Alton, the co-ordinator of the project for the Arts Council, first met with the guest mentors and youth. The youth went over colour theory, shading, and painting techniques with artist mentors. Youth were very active in painting and did most of the outlines and touch-ups on the mural.
In speaking with Alton about the project, one quickly realizes that this is not just about beautification. The mural painting is also about teens being a part of something that will last, and shows all teens how public art can be positive and respectful.
“The arts are the best insurance policy a city can take on itself. We need more murals or other community art projects created by the diverse members of our community, especially the youth,” says Heather Alton, artist mentor.
Students involved with the project were connected to the Arts Council through artist mentor and local substitute teacher Barb Mareck.
“I have met some very artistic students who aspire to continue their art education once they graduate The mural project has been an excellent opportunity for these students to showcase their talent and get some practical experience,” says Mareck.
The painting of the mural was also enjoyed by many people passing by. The artists commented that they appreciated the encouragement of people walking along the path and some viewers even stopped to make their own contribution.
The Comox Valley Community Arts Council is looking forward to more mural projects. For teens interested in mural painting, there is the added bonus that mural projects can count for work experience hours.
If you would like to be involved in the next project, contact Jen Alton at events@comoxvalleyarts.org.
For more information on mural projects in Courtenay, contact the Community Services Department at 250-334-4441.
— Courtenay Recreation