New Community Building mural presents art experience

With the vision of Jim Sheehan and John Waite, owners of several buildings on the block at the east end of W. Main, new murals were unveiled on July 11 during a party at the Community Building Commons with members of the Spokane City Council and the community gathering.

The  mural is "to expand beauty to places where people don't expect it and give life to areas that are hidden," in order to uplift the human spirit, said Angela Chapman, manager for the Community/Saranac Buildings. "Beauty is inclusive. If it's exclusive, it's not legitimate. Beauty should not be restricted to place.

"Downtown Spokane has had businesses driven out due to problems over the years, but having these murals brings more attention to our beautiful block and businesses," she continued.

The Main Market has had a mural at that site for 20 years and had only one graffiti incident.

"This indicates that Spokane wants to see beauty," Angela said. "Most importantly, the perspective of artists is essential.

"To understand their idea of beauty enhances our energy and is for everyone," she said, expressing thanks to Jim and John for helping keep this block "beautiful, inclusive and energized. They have always been passionate about keeping the buildings both inside and out beautiful and at the forefront.

"While working on the structure and bones of the buildings is important, keeping them beautiful makes the neighborhood more inclusive and more inviting for all," said Angela.

The mural brings beauty to an otherwise drab alley, used every day by pedestrians, visitors and employees of Main Street.

Angela said the Community Building Community envisioned creating a living art alley from end to end to "encourage curiosity, increase foot traffic and  be enjoyed all year round. It is a one-of-a-kind space in Spokane, drawing visitors in the city and beyond."

Five local artists painted on the theme of "Beauty."

Every two years, the murals will be painted over by new art with the baton of a paintbrush passed on to the next artist.

"We are excited to be part of this beautification of our neighborhood alley. The Superhero design by Amber Hoit is perfect for us," said John, owner of Merlyn's.

The 2024 artists include Amber Hoit, Daniel Lopez, Brittany Trambitas, Danielle Davis and Hazel Miller—each bringing their own perspectives to a unique canvas.

"I am here to add color to my city," said Amber.

She described this as a chance to showcase the Black superheroes she looked up to fighting together to overcome hardship. She painted on Merlyn's back wall.

For information, visit Amber Hoit, @aodpainting; Hazel Miller, @hazelthepainter; Brittany Trambitas, @btrambitas_artistry; Danielle Davis  and Daniel Lopez at godffiti.com