1. It started with this blighted area on West Washington/Route 66–not a very attractive sight in our town. Viva Cuba decided that it was time to transform this blight into a more attractive scene.
This old board blocked the area between two buildings on W. Washington/Route 66.
2. Viva Cuba commissioned artist Shelly Smith Steiger to paint a replacement board to transform the area via a pocket (small) project. We started with artist sketches of this “small art” project
A idea is proposed via a sketch.
3. After discussion and approval, the painting began. The artist’s talent and imagination took over to create a whimsical courtyard complete with flowers and a gate.
The artist translated her concept with paint and talent. The painting created a background and a foreground. Colors were mixed, and the creative process brought the idea to life.
4. Details evolved. Greenery thrived in the courtyard. A cat was included in the scene.
A small cat was added with a paw through the gate. Flowers and vines were grew in the courtyard and on the gate. Greenery grew in the courtyard.
5. Then the painting was completed, and it was time for local carpenter David Workman to install the painting. But the best laid plans are often thwarted by nature. The installation was delayed by rain. As a result, the artist took another look at the painting and decided to add a little action with a mouse.
Now the playful mouse will forever paw at the mouse.
5. Then the rain ceased, the artist and the carpenter collaborated, and Viva Cuba’s latest beautification pocket project is in place. Where there was once blight, there is now whimsical art that makes our town’s streetscape just a little more special. Next time that you are in the historic area on W. Washington, take the time to visit our smallest courtyard with the playful cat and mouse chase that will never be fulfilled. See if you can “spy the eye” in the painting.
Let us know how you like it. Should we continue the painting with more “small art” projects?
Artist Steiger has transformed a blighted area with her talent and imagination.
If you look closely at the fence in the back…you might see someone looking back at you. 😉
Shelly you’ve once again hit it out of the ball park. Great job!!!
Most definitely continue the projects. What a great talent and to think, we are blessed she is “Ours”
We agree.
Where do you think would be a good place for another pocket project?
Shelly you are so talented. You see way beyond whats right in front of you. I love it. Keep up your artistic works.
Cleta Cottrell Hartman (from Steelville originally)
I did notice that in one of the closeup photos. I added a reference to it so that others can find that element. Love all those little details that make such a satisfying whole.
Great Job Shelly, you make this town proud to live in!!!!!
Look at the knotholes in the wood. It looks real. Very proud of you Shelly!
There are lots of neat details. I hope people take the time to go down and check it out up close and personal. It hard to believe that old, rotted board was there for years.