COLUMBUS, Ind. — Indianapolis-based artist Nick Abstract has been commissioned to create two murals on the east-facing walls of Propeller. Previously, Abstract created a mural on the walls of a 6th Street building enclosing the Sixth Street Arts Alley.
Propeller, a 9,000-square-foot facility that houses a 3D printing lab, welding bay, metal shop, woodworking shop, electronics lab, and classroom, is home to the Columbus Area Arts Council studio and three other tenants.
Among more than 20 submissions, Abstract’s qualifications and portfolio stood out for its distinctive blend of contemporary aesthetics and meaningful storytelling, according to the mural committee. Guiding the selection process was Lulu Loquidis, principal architect with the LAA Office, who orchestrated the deliberations that led to Abstract’s appointment.
The LAA Office, a design studio in Columbus, prepared the exterior master plan for Propeller with funds raised through a crowdfunding campaign and matching grant from Indiana Housing and Community Development Corporation. It was also responsible for the transformation of 6th Street.
The mural committee included Bryan Rushton, Brian Payne, Cindy Frey, Brooke Hawkins, Ashley Dieters, Veronica Franzese, and Tracy Munn.
The facades will be primed in early September with painting expected to be complete by September 30.
