Findlay announces new downtown mural

FINDLAY — The city of Findlay announced this week a request for qualifications for a new large-scale public mural that will honor the men and women of the United States Armed Forces while celebrating the upcoming 250th anniversary of the United States in 2026. The mural will be located at 310 N. Main St. in Downtown Findlay, on a building owned by Jamie Miller where an existing mural is currently in need of significant repair. The new installation is envisioned as a highly visible and meaningful tribute, reflecting themes of service, sacrifice, unity and national pride, a release from the city states. The project will honor all six branches of the United States military and serve as a lasting symbol of gratitude from the Findlay community, it states. "This mural represents an opportunity to both honor those who have served our country and celebrate a historic milestone in our nation's story," said Mayor Christina Muryn. "I am sad to see the existing mural go as it has been such a beautiful part of Findlay's landscape for two decades. Unfortunately, the building and mural need significant rehab and it is unable to simply be restored. "We are excited to invite talented artists to help us create a piece that not only enhances our downtown, but also reflects the deep respect our community has for our veterans and active-duty service members." The project is being overseen by Findlay City Council members and military veterans Nichole Coleman (senior airman, US Air Force), Rodney Phillips (lance corporal, US Marine Corps) and Bradley Wagner (AW3, US Navy Aircrewman). "This project is deeply personal to me," said Coleman, R-1. "It's an opportunity to honor those who have served and sacrificed, while creating something meaningful for our entire community to reflect on and take pride in." "Service doesn't end when you take off the uniform," said Phillips, R-6. "This mural is a way to continue that service by recognizing our veterans, honoring their legacy, and bringing our community together." "This tribute represents more than just the branches of the military, it reflects the values of commitment, courage, and unity that define both our armed forces and our community here in Findlay," said Wagner, R-at large. The selected artist or artist team will work collaboratively with city officials, veterans' organizations and community stakeholders to design and install the new mural. The city does not yet know the budget for the project, the release states, but it anticipates fundraising over the next year to support the effort. The Hancock County Korean War Veterans Chapter 172 have already donated $2,500 to kick off the project. To donate to the project, people can make contributions to the city of Findlay Community Improvement Fund at The Findlay-Hancock County Community Foundation — https://www.community-foundation.com/funds/the-community-improvement-fund. Artists with experience in large-scale public art are encouraged to apply. Submissions will be reviewed based on artistic quality, experience and the ability to interpret the project's themes, the release states. Additional details regarding the RFQ, including submission requirements and a project timeline, can be found on the city's website at www.findlayohio.gov.