EXETER – The word mural is normally associated with epic paintings that dominate one side of an entire building as a grand expression of a community’s culture. But in Exeter, even smaller paintings tucked away on the side of storage shack facing an alleyway are just as important to the overall landscape of its outdoor gallery.
That’s why Exeter’s newest and smallest mural is the theme of this year’s annual mural fundraiser. Exeter’s A Festival of Art proudly presents their 17th Annual Garden Party, the lone fundraiser dedicated to supporting the existing murals, on Sunday, May 6 at downtown Exeter’s Mixter Park, on the corner of Pine and E. Streets. This year’s theme is, “Anna’s Flowers,” the city’s newest petite mural painted in 2017 by Christie Caldwell. Anna’s Flower is a breed of humming bird depicted in the mural on the east-facing wall of the brick building in alleyway behind City Hall.
Starting at 5 p.m., the fun-filled event will feature dinner, entertainment, as well as live and silent auctions. Individual tickets are available for $50 each and can be purchased at the Exeter Chamber of Commerce or from any of the Mural Team members.
The event’s proceeds will provide funding for additional murals and help maintain existing ones. Exeter’s murals promote economic development through tourism as well as beautifying the downtown atmosphere.
The Mural Team is in need of table sponsors. There are three levels: $1,000, $750 and $500. Some benefits of the sponsorship include verbal recognition during the event, name listed in the program and a reserved table of eight. A sponsorship form can be obtained by visiting the Chamber of Commerce at 101 W. Pine St. For more information contact Pamela Whitmire, 359-4644, the Exeter Chamber of Commerce, 592-2919, or any other member of the Exeter Mural Team.
