SAFFORD — They came from Globe and Phoenix, as well as the Gila Valley, to put their mark on Safford’s Downtown.
The Community Mural Event got underway Friday, with volunteers helping paint a series of murals on the west side of the Gila Valley made building.
“I always like seeing these murals and I thought it would be cool if came and paint one,” said Jacey Tilley, 10.
The Community Mural Event is the brainchild of local artist Brandt Woods, who is painting 31 murals in Safford’s Downtown area. For the Community Mural Event, he laid down base coats of paint and created stencil and drew in templates for the public to paint in the designs.
He also enlisted the help of artist Mandy Matthews, of Phoenix and formerly of the Gila Valley, to design and paint the mural sponsored by Lynn Meadows Homes.
“It’s cool to be around other people and just kind of feel the energy that’s going on. Everyone’s just excited; they get to get their hands dirty and have fun with it,” Matthews said.
In addition to Lynn Meadows Homes, mural sponsors include Keyhole Properties, The Parlor Hair and Body Salon, Gila Electric and Home Depot.
The public can still participate, as painting continues Friday until 5 p.m. and again Saturday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
