Theodore Coffin focuses on brushstrokes as he paints in the studio. Staff photo by Anthony Hudson
Students from Indiana University Northwest will install self-made murals outside the old Sears building to help bring Gary’s story to life.
The City of Gary has made beautification a priority and partnered with IUN’s School of the Arts on the project. Since late May, seven students have been sketching designs, gathering supplies, and using gallons of paint to craft five 17-foot murals that will become a permanent fixture in the city. The five murals that will be unveiled are: sports, architecture, industry (with five portraits), music and black and white.
Christopher Harris, Gary’s director of redevelopment, conceived the project as a way to showcase downtown’s vitality.
“We wanted to show how we make downtown more intentional as people drive down Broadway,” Harris said. “Also, to create spaces where people can enjoy the city and have a unique experience.”
Harris reached out to Erin McHugh, IUN’s director of arts programming and engagement, who began working with faculty to identify students best suited for the work.
“I quickly thought about which advanced-level students could deliver something like this,” McHugh said. “We started conversations with our advanced painting classes with Professor Thomas about who would be best for the project.”
Professor Sebastian Thomas, who has built a strong rapport with his students, saw the murals as a perfect way to connect classroom work to community engagement.
“I want to ensure our students get visibility and a platform,” Thomas said. “This is an excellent opportunity for the School of the Arts and my students.”
One of those students, Myrkul Holly-Meadowcroft, recently graduated from the art program and has deep ties to the city.
“I’ve always felt welcomed here,” Holly-Meadowcroft said. “I love the history and architecture, and I feel honored to depict Gary and do something for the city.”
The mural class was offered for academic credit, with a completion deadline of Aug. 14. Student artist Dashiana Bingham said she’s eager for the public to see the results.
“We rarely get to do anything at this high caliber at IUN,” Bingham said. “It was an excellent opportunity to work with peers I’ve collaborated with for years.”
The murals will be unveiled at an official ceremony in September.
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