Case Study: Putnam County Mural Project
The Putnam County Mural Project produced one of Indiana's largest mural sites in September 2019 in Greencastle, Indiana.
The Putnam County Mural Project produced one of Indiana's largest mural sites in September 2019 in Greencastle, Indiana. The project used four south-facing silos of S&W Feed Center, located at the intersection of Veterans Highway and SR. 231, as a canvas for muralist Key Detail.
The project was led by Greencastle Civic League and community input not only guided their efforts but was essential. Organizers set up at the local farmers market to have residents vote on the murals they want to see.
The final design features native animals and plants and culturally specific elements like a covered bridge and a violin that pays homage to the DePauw University music department.
This project beautified and activated an overlooked, highly-trafficked area of the community, and will be the future site of a People Pathways trail-link that will provide residents with a perfect viewing area of the artwork.
A county-wide community block party was held to celebrate the conclusion of this project. The free event featured live music from nine-time Blues Music Award nominee Tad Robinson Band, along with food and drink vendors, including Putnam Inn, Wasser Brewery, and Almost Home. The event included activities for the whole family, such as a bounce house, face painting, arts, and games.
“This project is not only about creating a beautiful piece of art for all to enjoy, it is also about initiating community conversations and forming a deeper interest in public art’s role in creative placemaking. We believe one of the ways this project continues to be most impactful is its ability to bring the entire community together to engage with the artistic process; to listen and learn from one another. We hope this mural continues to spark excitement, conversation, and civic pride, while at the same time changing the way people interact with the space.” - Chris Flegal, Putnam County Mural Project
Project Details
- Project: Putnam County Mural Project
- Project Type: Public Art
- Project Location: Greencastle, IN
- Crowdfunding Raise: $34,415
- Crowdgranting Match: $30,000
- Patrons: 260
- Total Project Estimate: $60,000
About CreatINg Places
CreatINg Places is our Indiana-based crowdgranting program in partnership with the Indiana Housing and Community Development Authority (IHCDA). As a place-based crowdgranting program, CreatINg Places empowers the public – residents, businesses, and community organizations – to play a role in achieving community improvements and building community pride. Projects can receive a matching grant from the IHCDA for between $5,000 and $50,000.
