On Saturday, four new murals will adorn Valparaiso during the Mural Walk event. Attendees have the chance to contribute creatively. Jessica Corral, Executive Director of the Valparaiso Creative Council, highlighted the impact of the recent storms. She believes this event will provide enjoyment amid challenges. The Mural Walk, running from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., will feature the city’s longest and tallest murals.
Felix Maldonado from Hammond is working on a mural at Smith Ready Mix, located at 251 Brown St. Corral mentioned the significance of the mural’s scale and praised Maldonado’s exceptional design. The company is covering costs beyond what the council can offer.
The mural by Katie Lukes of Chicago is planned for the Valparaiso Chamber of Commerce building. While a rain delay affects the mural’s immediate creation, Lukes will paint panels for later installation. Lukes is known for her vibrant, narrative-driven graphic collages.
Another mural, by Cassi Graber from South Bend, will be crafted at the Valpo Creates Center. It will later be placed at Central Park Plaza. Graber’s work encourages public participation, allowing attendees to help with this collaborative effort. Corral hopes for 2,000 participants to leave their mark on the mural, which will be three panels totaling eight by twelve feet. Various materials and tools will be available for festival goers to use.
Visitors can explore 13 existing murals using the Mural Walk map. Festival locations will host musicians and interactive art activities. Duneland Pottery, a tenant of Valpo Creates Center, will also conduct activities. Attendees should check in at the Valpo Creates Center, City Hall, or the VCC booth at the farmer’s market to receive a map. The first 500 will receive tote bags containing a coloring book, scavenger hunt checklist, and more.
Incentives are available for children completing the scavenger hunt, with chances to win gifts. Four downtown spots, including Lower Lincoln and Roots Café, will showcase artists like Melissa Griffin and Leah Romano McMeen.
This year’s festival duration extends to 3 p.m., offering families more time at each location. Funds raised from donations will be matched by the Lilly Endowment. Future plans include a Popcorn Festival fundraiser at Journeyman Distillery’s parking area, as noted by Corral.
Doug Ross contributed to this report as a freelance journalist for the Post-Tribune.
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