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Surprise Arts Commission wants more murals

Popularity of Surprise Aquatic Center art sparks more interest

Posted 9/16/20

The new mural outside the Surprise Aquatic Center, 15831 N. Bullard Ave., has been such a hit with residents, the city’s Arts and Cultural Advisory Commission wants more.

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Arts

Surprise Arts Commission wants more murals

Popularity of Surprise Aquatic Center art sparks more interest

Posted

The new mural outside the Surprise Aquatic Center, 15831 N. Bullard Ave., has been such a hit with residents, the city’s Arts and Cultural Advisory Commission wants more.

Commissioners asked artist BacPac, whose real name is Jeremie Frank, to consider filling in the other side of the entrance outside the Aquatic Center.

“We’re just so tickled by the one that exists, the idea of having the finished version on the other side is exciting,” Arts commission Chair Margaret Lieu said.

BacPac said it would cost about $7,824 to complete the other side.

Her “Swimming with Porpoise” mural on the northwest part of the building features three dolphins swimming with a woman in an underwater ocean scene.

The commission approved the mural in May, and it was completed by July.

“A number of us talked about how we look at (the) mural and looked at the other side of the facility and ... noticed now it was empty and it needed something,” Arts Commissioner Susan deJong said.

BacPac is the former guitarist for influential 1970s UK punk band The Raincoats. She made mention of her association with Nirvana’s Kurt Cobain during her last visit in front of the Arts Commission on Sept. 14.

“Art adds value to the community,” BacPac told the commision, adding “one of the things that does happen that’s very positive with mural painting is vandalism is reduced.”

The commission asked BacPac to also quote them on a price for a smaller mural outside the Hollyhock Pool, 15844 N. Hollyhock St.

“I think it’s a building that’s just begging for it,” BacPac said. “It’s a big blank wall begging for a mural.”

Editor’s Note: Jason Stone can be reached at jstone@newszap.com.