The City of Newport is launching a floodwall mural project designed to celebrate the city’s history through a series of murals.
The first two mural panels are scheduled to be installed in August, marking the official start of the project. The initial murals will introduce the community to the project’s vision while helping generate support and fundraising for future panels. The new mural panels are a continuation of the existing mural that is there now.
“Our parks and public spaces tell the story of who we are, and this project gives us an opportunity to share Newport’s story in a lasting way,” said Josh Tunning, municipal specialist for the City of Newport. “These murals will transform the floodwall into a place where residents can see their community reflected and where visitors can experience the rich history that has shaped Newport for generations.”
The murals will be designed and painted by local artists selected through a public call for artists process. ArtsWave is helping with overseeing the selection process to ensure a diverse group of artists accurately reflects Newport’s history and culture.
The project was shaped by a mural committee that developed the vision after reviewing nearly 200 responses from a community public survey. Residents identified landmarks, businesses, notable people and stories as the key elements they wanted represented.
Newport’s historic preservation officer organized the mural content into a chronological timeline with each panel depicting a different era of the city’s history.
The murals will highlight Newport’s commitment to preserving its heritage while creating a public art destination for residents and visitors. As additional funding becomes available, more panels will be added to expand the series and tell additional chapters of Newport’s history.
More information about the call for artists, project updates and opportunities to support the floodwall mural project will be announced as they become available.
City of Newport