In December of 2019, a new mural for the coastal community of Westport, Washington was launched. During Santa by the Sea, Stitches Quilt and Craft shop hosted the first participatory event to start progress on a 5′ x 7′ quilt-themed mural that will be installed on the side of their building, adjacent to and overlooking the marina. The mural is going to be placed on the Southeast side of the Windermere building located at 2601 Westhaven Dr.
In December, people of all ages made 3″ squares from colorful recycled glass tiles. I created a large central section featuring a Mariners Compass; a popular image for the city, as well as a common theme in traditional quilting. The small squares were added around the outside of the 3′ x 5′ center panel. During the launch, we also introduced a sponsorship program, requested donations, and raffled off a compass mosaic suncatcher.
In February, we held a “mosaic party” with first dibs on participation going to donors. Some of the participants were local business owners and some were their employees, family and/or friends. Half of the 10″ squares were made that will frame the outside of the mural, each featuring something representing the spirit of Westport.
There were plans for another mosaic party and more fundraising events. Half of the money needed has been raised, and we need about $2500 to complete and install the mural. But then the pandemic struck, and not only is it not feasible to hold community events, but with businesses and individuals facing economic hardship, this is no time to ask for donations for a mural. The mural is so far along, and I would love to see it installed by summer, when people will be able to begin heading to the ocean to safely fish, beachcomb, hike, swim and surf.
I am exploring every option for grants or other fundraising, and it would be wonderful if a business that has not been negatively impacted by the stay-at-home order would step forward and sponsor the remainder of the work. *Another step that I promised is a donor plaque that will feature the names of everyone who contributes more than $50.
Donate any amount through the Go Fund Me: gf.me/u/vzijsr
Or make a quick $20 donation at the link below:
For now, several artists around the region have been making remaining squares in their homes and sending them to me. We only have a few left to create, and I have two volunteers getting ready to take them on this week. There are still quite a few more steps to attaching them to the tile boards and getting everything in place, so if anyone out there knows of someone who would want to help make this mural a reality, please share this story!
