Local Artists Needed to Help Bring Market Loop Mural to Life

TEMPLE, TX (August 31, 2023) The City of Temple’s Housing & Community Development department is seeking talented local artists who would like to volunteer their time and artistic ability to help complete the Market Loop Mural on Friday, October 20. Artists will showcase the mural’s “A Day at the Park” theme by painting elements from the artwork created by local children onto the mural wall.

Artists interested must be Temple residents and can sign up through the day of the painting event on October 20. The department will send additional information closer to the event date, and artists will be able to select a two-hour time slot they would like to paint for.

“A day at the park looks different for every kid, from climbing trees to playing tag,” said Nancy Glover, the City of Temple’s Director of Housing and Community Development. “We hope that the artists will be able to bring the design submissions we received from young creatives to life.”

Located along the main thoroughfare to the McLane Children’s Hospital, the Market Loop Mural aims to provide a much-needed distraction for children on their way to the hospital for treatment. Looking at artwork has proven to be an effective distraction tool, and it is especially helpful for children with medical conditions who must receive repeated medical care.

With Phase One consisting of 40 train cars, flowers, clouds, and a memorial tree for the Uvalde shooting victims, Phase Two of the mural will only add to the vibrancy, helping to brighten the spirits of the kids who are going to the children’s hospital for treatment. Art has the power to inspire, and local artists can use their talents to contribute to this purposeful project.

Additionally, the department is continuing to accept artwork submissions from young creatives through Friday, September 15. Entries can be submitted via email to Katherine Loftin at kloftin@templetx.gov or in person to the City of Temple Housing & Community Development at 101 N. Main St.

To access the artist sign-up form and learn more about the project, please visit templetx.gov/mural.