Wendell seeks to expand, protect public art

Wendell commissioners backed a resolution offered by town staff on Monday that aims to increase the amount and variety of art in public spaces and protect art instillations already on display.

A survey of 314 respondents spanning various ages, races and income levels that was conducted by town staff found that public art is broadly supported in Wendell. Almost 70% of residents surveyed said they’d like to see more art in the town’s downtown district.

“The thing is, a lot of our murals are ones people really love,” town Planning Director Bryan Coates said. “They love them all.”

Survey results show landscape art, murals and architectural pieces are at the top of many residents’ wish lists.

In response to the survey, town officials pledged to bolster and continue implementing Wendell’s public art master plan. Conducting the survey was the plan’s first step.

In the coming months, town employees will draft a plan they hope will outline a cohesive vision for future art instillations that boost continuity and local cultural impact.

“We’re in the early phases of drafting the plan and hope to have it completed by the end of the year,” Coates said.

In addition to commissioning new art, Coates stressed the importance of preserving Wendell’s current roster of public artwork.

Wendell has a “mural trail” that many residents already enjoy visting. It’s composed of 13 murals painted on the sides of buildings in the downtown district.

Coates said preserving murals can be tricky because they’re often painted on privately owned buildings, and landowners’ plans for their property might not include serving as a permanent public canvas.

He said commissioners will discuss easements and potential resolutions to ensure a future for the town’s murals.

“These are the kinds of things we need to look at to make sure those pieces are protected going forward,” Coates said.

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