Michigan City-based Lubeznik Center for the Arts is hosting an event Oct. 4 to unveil a new mural on the La Porte Public Library.
Titled “La Portal,” the mural was painted on the La Porte County Public Library Exchange Building this summer by Alex Ann Allen. The Health Foundation of La Porte funded the mural.
The mural came about through meetings with Lubeznik Center for the Arts, the library's staff and board, the artist and community members. The mural was designed with the building's past and current use in mind. It was also influenced by the architecture of the building and the themes of creativity and innovation.
“Art has long been shown to positively affect the social determinants of health, or the non-medical factors that influence health outcomes,” Erica Kinney of Health Foundation of La Porte said in a press release. “Creating and enjoying the arts helps promote holistic wellness, so Health Foundation of La Porte is happy to support Lubeznik Center for the Arts as it brings beautiful art for the entire community to enjoy.”
Alex Ann Allen, a South Bend native, said her goal for the mural was to create something innovative and inspiring.
“Painting this mural has been an amazing experience and making new friends in this community has brought me so much joy,” Allen said.
The celebration will take place 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. Oct. 4 at the La Porte County Main Library. Refreshments will be provided. Learn more about the event here.
“This project has been a great example of what can happen when people come together to share ideas and think creatively to bring happiness to the community,” Fonda Owens, La Porte County Library executive director, said.
