Ode to Shirley Schanan Gruen and Her Love of Port Washington

Location:

 1000 N Wisconsin St
Discover All Murals >
Artist:
Helena Martin

Mural Completion Year:
2024

Media Used:
spray paint and acrylic
 
Inspiration:
The purpose of this mural is to honor the city of Port Washington and its residents with depictions of characteristic landmarks and native birds as well as pay homage to Shirley Schanen Gruen, a local artist who had a studio on Franklin Street.

My design was inspired by several of Shirley's paintings, most notably “Port Washington Watercolor Poster.” Shirley clearly enjoyed the timeless beauty of the city and I want that feeling to come through in this mural. The design includes the charming Saint Mary Church, a frequent subject of Shirley’s, as well as the marina, with the north pier breakwater and the iconic Pierhead Lighthouse.

The mural features several birds flying to the top of Saint Mary’s, which is in part a reference to Shirley’s mosaic on Gallery 224 as well as her other paintings that feature flying bird silhouettes.

Video Credit: Dale Palecek

Mural Progression Gallery

1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 | 7 | 8