New Mural Dedicated in Downtown Independence

Community leaders and state partners recently gathered in downtown Independence to dedicate a new mural created by Iowa artist Jenna Brownlee. Debi Durham, Director of the Iowa Economic Development Authority and Iowa Finance Authority, was a featured speaker at the official dedication, representing the state agency whose investment made the project possible.

The mural was completed through the Iowans Create Community Mural Program, managed by the Iowa Arts Council and funded by the Iowa Economic Development Authority. The program connects Iowa artists and communities to create public art that reflects local identity, builds community pride and strengthens downtown districts.

“At BCEDC, we know that tourism is economic development,” said Lisa Kremer, Executive Director of Buchanan County Economic Development. “When visitors spend money at our restaurants, shops and attractions, they support local businesses and strengthen our communities. This mural gives people another reason to stop, explore and experience what Buchanan County has to offer.”

“This mural is more than paint on a wall. It is a celebration of creativity, an investment in our downtown and an invitation to visitors,” said Chris Even, President of Buchanan County Tourism.

The mural adds a new landmark to downtown Independence and gives visitors another reason to stop, explore local businesses and experience Buchanan County. It is located on the west wall of a building owned by Dom Sparrgrove of Sparrgrove Enterprises LLC.

“Projects like this show what can be accomplished through strong community and state partnerships,” Kremer said. “Programs like this make it possible for smaller, rural communities to create public art that might otherwise be beyond their reach.”

Other speakers included Kremer; Morgan Koch, a downtown business owner and supporter of the arts; Nikki Barth, representing the Independence Area Chamber of Commerce and Independence LACES; and Brownlee. Chris Even, President of Buchanan County Tourism, served as emcee.

Buchanan County Tourism and Buchanan County Economic Development thanked Durham, the Iowa Economic Development Authority, the Iowa Arts Council, Brownlee, Sparrgrove, the Independence Area Chamber of Commerce, Independence LACES and the many community members who helped make the project possible.

photos courtesy of Buchanan County Economic Development