Putnam County Mural Project exceeds goal

More than 250 donors contributed to the Putnam County Mural Project, raising $34,415 in just 30 days to qualify for a $30,000 matching grant through the Indiana Housing & Community Development Authority’s (IHCDA) CreatINg Places program.

Significant funds came from 100+ Men Who Care of Putnam County, 100 Women Who Care of Putnam County and the Putnam County Convention and Visitors Bureau.

The $64,415 raised will go toward prepping and painting four large grain silos at the corner of Veterans Memorial Highway and U.S. 231 in Greencastle. The prep work will begin on Aug. 12, and mural installation will begin and be complete by the end of September.

“100+ Men of Putnam County is pleased to support the Putnam County Mural Project,” said Mike Harmless, a member of 100+ Men of Putnam County. “It is wonderful that over 70 applicants wanted to create this large mural. This project will totally transform the gateway to our county seat.”

Key Detail, whose murals are seen around the world, was selected for the project because of his talent, style — which matched the community’s preferences — and his interest in connecting with the community.

The idea for the project stemmed from a small volunteer committee that wanted to celebrate the county’s heritage and create civic pride through the arts.

“I am thrilled to see Putnam County’s long tradition of excellence in the arts — from ceramics to music — further elevated by a bold new generation of community leaders,” said Kit Newkirk, board member of the Putnam County Convention and Visitors Bureau. “Their leadership promises not only to enrich our quality of life, but also attract and engage visitors who, in turn, energize our economy.”

The artist will submit two renderings for consideration for the project, and residents can vote for their favorite during the First Friday event on Aug. 2.

To learn more about the artist and events surrounding the project, visit www.putnamcountymuralproject.org.

The Putnam County Mural Project seeks to enrich lives by engaging the community in participatory mural projects that activate spaces, build artistic capacity and celebrate what the community is. Committee members include Alexandra Chamberlain, Chris Flegal, Eric Freeman, J.D. Grove, Kate Knaul and Kristen Fuhs Wells. Learn more at www.putnamcountymuralproject.org or by following @putnamcountymuralproject on Facebook and Instagram.