Created: May-July 2018
Media: Exterior Latex House Paint on Brick
Size: (ave.) 14 feet tall by 45 feet wide (Roof goes from 12.5 feet high on left to 15.5 feet high on right)
Location: South of the Athens Historical Museum at 101 S. Capital Avenue, Athens, MI
Painter: Kimber Thompson
Design concept and original painting: Michael Peck

"Portal to the Past" Athens mural

The brick wall was in good shape, so a primer coat and base coat colors were rolled on by five Athens youth.Their initials can be found on the far left side of the finished mural - thanks guys! Great job!

Work on the image started on the left side buildings, then the right side buildings, and finally the middle trees were added. The horses were last to go in. 

The final touch was to hide 34 donor names into the image, which took the artist into the night that final evening. A "map" showing where the donor names are located can be found below. 

Ladders of various heights were used to reach the top areas of the mural, due to all of the existing structures and plantings in this wonderful little courtyard. A half-wall from their old high school, historic bricks, and a drinking fountain (that works!) have been moved here from areas around town. The floor of the courtyard is made of engraved blocks from donors. 

It was a privilege to work in Athens, the people have been warm and welcoming and would sure enjoy a visit from you. The courtyard is open to the public from dawn to about 5pm every day. You may want to time your visit so you can enjoy their wonderful historic museum, which is next door and open from 10-noon on Fridays and Saturdays. 


Click here for Donor Name Placement Map