Main Street grant will support museum mural project

Main Street Eureka Springs is proud to announce a $1,000 Community Partnership Grant to the Eureka Springs Historical Museum in support of a new public art and storytelling project envisioned for the south entrance into downtown Eureka Springs.

The project centers around the reproduction and installation of a large historic mural painted by local artist Don Kennett, a friend and colleague of Louis and Elsie Freund. Kennett also assisted Louis Freund with the iconic Centennial Mural located downtown.

The original mural — approximately 12 feet by 25 feet — was previously displayed inside the former Galleria Mall building, now Nelson’s. The museum is exploring reproducing the mural onto outdoor panels for installation on the exterior stone wall of the museum building facing Planer Hill, helping create a vibrant and welcoming gateway into the city.

The concept includes incorporating the phrase “Welcome to Eureka Springs” above the mural as a celebration of the city’s creative spirit, artistic heritage, and sense of place.

“We immediately loved the idea of this project,” said Jackie Wolven, executive director of Main Street Eureka Springs. “It brings together history, storytelling, public art, and placemaking in such a meaningful way. Projects like this help reinforce the creative culture that makes Eureka Springs unique while creating a beautiful visual welcome into our downtown district.”

Jeff Danos, director of the Eureka Springs Historical Museum, said the project reflects the museum’s ongoing commitment to preserving and sharing local history in accessible and engaging ways.

“This mural is part of Eureka Springs’ artistic story,” Danos said. “We’re excited about the possibility of bringing it back into public view and creating something that both honors our past and welcomes future generations.”

The grant is part of Main Street Eureka Springs’ broader effort to invest in civic infrastructure and strengthen partnerships with organizations that contribute to the cultural and social vitality of the downtown district.

In addition to supporting preservation and economic vitality, Main Street Eureka Springs has increasingly focused its work on community connectedness, civic engagement and supporting the ecosystem of organizations that help residents love where they live.