Adding light to the darkness during the pandemic

Rochester's North Main St is adding art to the community with help from local artists, volunteers and donations. 

Located between the Record Farm and former Thread Shed, the brightly painted platform is already turning heads. Started spontaneously by Christine Walsh and self-funded during the Covid-19 shutdown, Walsh approached property owner Ruth Gunter about cleaning up the platform and giving it some color. The idea expanded into creating a tropical mural on the south side of the building, expanding horizons for Gunter's love of the arts. 

The mural will feature flowers, vines, endangered animals that they can be used for interactive photos and more. Local painter Erica Coffing is among the many other volunteers helping. 

Although the art piece is an independent project, Walsh is also the Rochester Downtown Partnership's Director of Promotions and is very passionate about bringing more art to Rochester. 

She says adding more public art to the community will not only beautify the town but also help with economic vitality. 

Anyone interested in getting involved in volunteering, ideas, donations or support can contact Christine at crstnwlsh@gmail.com.