At LPAC:

We believe art is for everyone.
We strive to create an inclusive and transparent process for creating in the community.
We meet people where they are.
We value artists and their contributions to our community and space.
We enhance public space and create opportunities for challenging conversation.

Concept

The Edgar J. Lewis Bandshell mural will transform one of Washington Park’s most recognizable structures into a vibrant cultural landmark. The concept centers on celebrating community gathering, local creativity, and the historic role of the bandshell as a site for performance, connection, and shared experience. By integrating art directly into the architecture, the project enhances both the visual identity of the park and the cultural life of Laramie.

Project Goals

1. Celebrate the Cultural Legacy of the Bandshell

The mural will honor the Edgar J. Lewis Bandshell as a historic site of performance, gathering, and shared creativity. By visually elevating the structure, the project reinforces its role as a cultural anchor within Washington Park and the broader Laramie community.

2. Enhance and Activate a High‑Use Public Space

Washington Park is one of Laramie’s most frequented outdoor spaces. Adding a mural to the bandshell transforms an already beloved site into a visually dynamic landmark, improving the aesthetic experience for residents, performers, and visitors. This aligns with LPAC’s mission to enrich everyday environments through public art.

3. Strengthen Community Identity Through Collaborative Storytelling

The mural will reflect themes, stories, and imagery gathered from community engagement sessions with park users, local musicians, and Laramie residents. This collaborative approach ensures the artwork authentically represents Laramie’s diverse cultural identity and aligns with LPAC’s commitment to community‑driven artmaking.

4. Expand the Definition of Public Art to Include Performance and Music

This project intentionally broadens LPAC’s public art framework by recognizing that creativity in Laramie extends beyond visual art. The bandshell mural becomes a platform for blending artistic disciplines. Visual art, music, spoken word, dance, and community performance all meld into a unified cultural experience. By integrating imagery inspired by rhythm, movement, and sound, the mural reinforces the idea that public art is not only something you see, but something you hear, feel, and participate in.

5. Create Opportunities for Interdisciplinary Arts Activation

The mural will continue to serve as a backdrop for concerts, festivals, and community gatherings, encouraging artists across disciplines to use the space in new ways. This goal aligns with LPAC’s mission to support diverse creative practices and foster environments where multiple art forms can intersect.

6. Support Local Artists and Creative Workforce Development

Commissioning a regional artist (or artist team) provides paid creative work, visibility, and professional development opportunities. This project directly advances LPAC’s mission to cultivate and sustain local artistic talent.

7. Foster Civic Partnership and Shared Stewardship

The project will be developed in partnership with the City of Laramie, reinforcing LPAC’s role as a connector between artists, municipal partners, and community stakeholders. This collaborative model supports long‑term stewardship of public art and strengthens civic engagement.

8. Increase Access to Public Art in Everyday Life

By placing a mural in a highly visible, widely used park, LPAC expands access to public art beyond traditional cultural venues. The bandshell mural ensures that creativity is encountered organically by people of all ages and backgrounds.