Special to the Reporter

Mercer Island’s Town Center is getting a fresh splash of color, thanks to a new mural project led by local artists from the Mercer Island Visual Arts League (MIVAL).

The community-driven initiative has brought together a group of local artists who have transformed a once overgrown wall into a colorful piece of public art in the front of Hub Boba (formerly Baskin Robbins). Artist Daniel Menezes led the team with his vision of Camellias. A paper cutting artist, he transformed a smaller piece into the mural scaled artwork and led the team of volunteers in painting the walls.

In addition to the wall mural, MIVAL Gallery members maintain the colorful flower patch and the Free Little Art Gallery where folks are welcome to make art, take art and share art. It’s constantly changing, and the joy is in the surprise of what local artists, young and old have shared.

As art and community intersect in the heart of town, MIVAL’s mural stands as a vibrant reminder of the power of creativity to connect and uplift. It’s also an invitation to walk the Town Center and explore the variety of retail experiences and hidden art moments. The MIVAL Gallery (2836 78th Ave. SE) is open from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Wednesday-Sunday and features a variety of works by local artists, including cards, jewelry, fabric art, ceramics and more.

Mercer Island Visual Arts League artist/gardener June Lindsey and muralist Daniel Menezes showing off the flower garden, Free Little Art Gallery and mural in process. Photo courtesy of the Mercer Island Visual Arts League