The Town of Alpine has announced completion and unveiling of the four America250 Commemorative Arts and Heritage murals that were commissioned last spring. Temporarily on display at the Lower Valley Energy substation, the four murals hang from the substation fencing, providing guests and residents with an artistic view of an otherwise industrial space.

According to a statement released by the Town of Alpine to the press last week, the new art offers a “colorful celebration of Alpine’s history, natural beauty, local character, and place in the American story.”

As part of the America250 Commemorative Arts and Heritage Initiative, funded by a $22,000 Semiquincentennial Grant awarded through Wyoming State Parks and Cultural Resources, the artistic space was “created to honor Alpine’s heritage, support artists, encourage community participation, and commemorate the 250th anniversary of the United States through public art and cultural storytelling.”

In partnership with the Star Valley Arts Council last spring, the Town of Alpine issued a call for artists to submit original designs. Nine artists submitted their work and members of the community were invited to help select the winning artwork. Four designs were chosen, with each winning artist receiving a $2,500 commission stipend for their design.

Selected designs were created by Henessie Yoshida, Ashley Daniel, Elly Rainey and Jamie Marvel, and the Town “partnered with Fencescreen to reproduce the winning designs as large-scale murals suitable for outdoor display.”

“This mural project is a wonderful example of how we can come together as a community to transform an ordinary space into something that reflects the character and spirit of Alpine,” said Mayor Eric Green. “We hope this project will inspire additional opportunities to showcase local art.”

Bear Prairie, CEO of Lower Valley Energy, is pleased that the member-owned cooperative embraced this opportunity to partner with Alpine and the art community to “showcase the work of these local artists.” Green expressed appreciation for Lower Valley Energy and the collaboration that has facilitated space for display of the murals.

As residents and visitors to Alpine enjoy the mural display, they are invited to share feedback with the town regarding efforts to harness the power of art in the enhancement of public spaces throughout Alpine.

Town officials appreciate the investment offered by all artists who submitted designs, residents who took part in the selection process, the Star Valley Arts Council, Lower Valley Energy, Wyoming State Parks and Cultural Resources, and the “many individuals who helped bring this project to life.”

The press release concluded by stating that “through this community-driven project, Alpine is celebrating the people, landscapes, heritage, and pioneering spirit that have shaped the community and the American West.”