Mural Nearing Completion in Downtown Manchester

Plenty of Manchester residents and visitors have been watching with great interest the image coming to life on the south side of Honey Creek Furniture. Thomas Agran, through a grant from the state of Iowa and efforts of the Manchester Vitality Endowment, was commissioned to paint a mural there…and it’s been coming to life paint stroke by paint stroke since late last week. KMCH had an opportunity to sit down with Agran and talk about how he came to be involved in the project.

 

Over the course of 4 days, Agran has brought to life a picturesque river image from nearby Manchester. A chance visit nearly 10 years ago left the indelible impression on Agran and serves as the inspiration.

 

Born in Kentucky and raised mainly in Cleveland, Ohio, Agran went to Grinnell College to study art, and now lives and runs his studio in Iowa City. Agran has created beautiful murals throughout the state, including in Keokuk last year. He says so far, the visitors in Manchester have been very excited to see his progress.

 

The Manchester Vitality Endowment Committee will be hosting a morning reception this morning from 8 to 10 am at the mural. The public is invited to join them for coffee, lemonade, and pastries while you check out the mural. This evening from 6 to 8pm, Mima’s Old Fashion Ice Cream will be selling ice cream treats. Those attending are asked to avoid parking in Palmer’s customer spots during business hours.