New Public Art Mural Celebrates Inclusivity in Bentonville's Cycling Community
The Bentonville Parks and Recreation Advisory Board is set to review a vibrant new public art project during their meeting on September 9, 2024. The proposed mural, titled All Bike(r)s Welcome, aims to celebrate the inclusivity and diversity of Bentonville’s cycling culture. Spearheaded by artist Paige Dirksen, the mural will be located in a trail tunnel at SW 3rd Street, just south of Coler Park.
The project is a collaboration between Dirksen and the local nonprofit group All Bikes Welcome, which focuses on fostering racial and gender equity in cycling through free and low-cost outdoor programs in the Northwest Arkansas area. The mural is designed to give both residents and visitors a sense of belonging, showcasing Bentonville's strong and inclusive cycling community.
The artwork, measuring 10 feet high and 52 feet wide, will span the tunnel’s interior wall and feature bold, colorful elements celebrating the region's cycling scene. The community will also be invited to participate in painting the mural, fostering a sense of ownership and pride in the public art.
The Bentonville Moves Coalition has awarded Dirksen a $2,500 grant to execute the project, with additional support from the Bentonville Advertising and Promotion Commission, which is contributing $1,700. The Bentonville Parks and Recreation Department will provide preparatory services, such as power washing the tunnel wall and applying an anti-graffiti sealant to protect the mural.
If approved, the mural is expected to be completed by the end of 2024, with a lifespan of 7 to 10 years. This artwork is part of the city's broader effort to enhance public spaces while encouraging community engagement through art. The mural will not only beautify the tunnel but also serve as a beacon of inclusion for all cyclists in the region.
This project highlights Bentonville's commitment to public art and active lifestyles, reflecting the city’s ongoing investment in its parks, trails, and cycling infrastructure.
