The city of McKinney launched a survey from Jan. 12-March 27 to help collect public input on what the mural should be and how it should accurately represent the city’s identity. McKinney has tapped Australian artist Guido van Helten to create the mural on the silos and grain elevator. Part of van Helten’s process is to engage with the community to help design a mural that will reflect the identity of McKinney.
During an April 5 City Council work session, Amy Rosenthal, McKinney Main Street program director, shared that the citizen survey had collected 177 responses. These responses were given to the McKinney Arts Commission to identify common themes. They included the following:
- Preserve the past and welcome progress
- We are unified in our diversity
- The struggles of growth, but together we are better
- Honor the “message” of respect, kindness, preservation, growth
- Embrace the past thoroughly, face the future bravely
Quotes from the survey were shared with the council, including “I hope the mural captures the heart of our area—most of which [is] open and inviting. I hope it reflects our commitment to the past, present and future.”
Overwhelmingly, the feedback on the mural project was “very positive,” Rosenthal said at the conclusion of her presentation.
Council agreed and expressed enthusiasm for the project as well.
“I love the intentionality of [van Helten] going around in the community and him trying to capture an image that we will all be proud of,” Council Member Geré Feltus said.
The silos are located off of East Virginia and Main streets across SH 5 in downtown McKinney. More information about the project is available at www.mckinneytexas.org/silos.
