FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
April 18, 2014

MEDIA CONTACTS
Gwen Schuler, Media and Communications, gschuler@cityoftacoma.org, (253) 591-5160
Maria Lee, Media and Communications, maria.lee@cityoftacoma.org, (253) 591-2054

Artist Selected for Murray Morgan Bridge Mural

Artist Nick Goettling from Gig Harbor was recently selected in a competitive process to create a site-responsive mural along Dock Street on the concrete wall of the stormwater collection system below the western side of Tacoma’s Murray Morgan Bridge.  

Built in 1913, the Murray Morgan Bridge was closed in 2007, due to safety concerns and restored and reopened 100 years later, in 2013. This $10,000 mural commission is part of an interpretive information plan to tell the story of the bridge and celebrate its connection to the Foss Waterway.

A review panel, consisting of community members affiliated with the site and Tacoma Arts Commissioners, reviewed the work of 10 artists, selecting three to interview for the final commission. The panel’s recommendation of Goettling was approved by the Tacoma Arts Commission on April 14, 2014.

“The panel was impressed with Goettling’s bold graphic style of painting and his personal connection to the history of the area,” said Tacoma Arts Commission Chair Traci Kelly. “His emphasis on colorful layers and interest in making the work approachable to all viewers fit the needs of our community.”

Goettling will continue research of the bridge and history of the area and will connect with members of the local community in developing a mural design. Painting will commence over the summer and the final mural will be completed by the end of October 2014.