If you’ve driven through Mantua, you’ve no doubt seen the colorful mural taking shape in the heart of the historic village this summer. On a gorgeous evening last weekend, the mural completion was officially celebrated by a socially distant gathering of some of those who helped make it possible.
“It’s official. The mural is completed!” marveled local photographer and mural artist Holly Michelson. “On to the next one!” she added happily. Michelson (fivefivephotos.com) worked with mural director/artist Amanda Mary Wascovich (awascovich.com) to bring her vibrant design to life. The project was encouraged and completed with help from Edie Knowlton Benner, Eric Hummel, Jeff Benner, Broc Benner, Dean Olsen, the DMRC, as well as a host of local volunteers and supporters.
“It was a team effort,” acknowledged Downtown Mantua Revitalization Corporation (DMRC) President Edie Benner. “Hopefully the mural, the remodeled (Middlefield) Bank, R44, Bibury (& Company), and the fact that the meat market is going to reopen under new management soon means that Mantua is on a roll!” she added.
Passing motorists beeped and waved to show support as the project was underway, and local pedestrians stopped by to thank the artists for their contribution. “It’s nice to be validated for your craft,” Wascovich explained. “But more than that, people are starting to see how beneficial creative spaces can be in a community,” she added.
The group invited people to enjoy the mural, and encouraged people to take selfies with Mantua Spud Bob, a fun character included in the piece to encourage kids of all ages to learn about the community’s history. According to Spud Bob’s creator, Michelson, “he’s a depiction of hope that our community is strong enough to stand together, grow through adversity, and revitalize itself while remembering to honor Mantua’s roots.”
Through the mural, Michelson tried to convey her vision of hope for Mantua; something she explained was molded through hope and prayer. At the very least, she hoped the project would bring a bit of color for people to enjoy; adding a bit of light and color to help bring hope and revitalize a small town. “I’m grateful to be a part of this community, and to have this opportunity” Michelson gushed. “If it makes one person smile when they walk or drive by, how cool is that?!” Wascovich added.
