“Fireflies and Creek Flowers” is a design that highlights Indiana’s state insect amid wildflowers that represent Cumberland’s waterways. Submitted photo
“Fireflies and Creek Flowers” is a design that highlights Indiana’s state insect amid wildflowers that represent Cumberland’s waterways. Submitted photo
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On the web
For more, visit town.cumberland.in.us or call 317-894-6203.
CUMBERLAND — Help choose a new mural for the Cumberland portion of the Pennsy Trail.

Two pavement designs are available for the community to vote on, online.

The town of Cumberland has been awarded funding through the Public Art for Neighborhoods program, an initiative of the city of Indianapolis that ensures city funding for private development returns to benefit local neighborhoods through arts and culture.

According to a press release from the town, this funding will support the creation of a new mural on the Pennsy Trail, transforming an underutilized space into a vibrant public art destination.

Local artist Koda Witsken, known for her previous public art projects in Cumberland, has created two mural concepts.

On the ballot are “Rose and Yellow Warbler,” a tribute to Cumberland’s past as Indiana’s “rose capital” featuring a vibrant rose motif alongside the yellow warbler, a bird commonly seen along the trail; and “Fireflies and Creek Flowers,” a design that highlights Indiana’s state insect, the firefly, glowing amid colorful wildflowers that represent Cumberland’s scenic waterways.

Community members can vote through the town’s Facebook page, Facebook.com/CumberlandIndiana. Comment on the post featuring the preferred design; voting is open through 9 a.m. April 1.

The initiative — supported by Indy Arts Council, Cumberland Development Corp., and Cumberland Parks and Recreation — allows the town to bring more public art to the community, enhancing local spaces with projects that reflect the town’s identity and history.

According to the press release, past murals have sparked enthusiasm from residents, with frequent comments expressing a desire for more artwork along the trail.

“The deep connection Cumberland residents have to the Pennsy Trail — 87% use it annually, and 64% at least once a month — demonstrates their passion and their collective wish for a more vibrant, art-filled experience,” the press release states. “To continue this momentum, the town of Cumberland is inviting the community to help select the design for the new pavement mural on the Pennsy Trail.”
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