Willoughby artist completes first public art installation at Osborne Park
Published by: The News-Herald
By Marah Morrison
Original Article found here
The Willoughby Arts Collaborative recently announced the completion of a painted sidewalk mural at Osborne Park.
The mural is titled “The Fish of Lake Erie” and was done by local Willoughby artist Grace Klein, a fourth-generation artist in the Stella’s Art Gallery family.
According to the Arts Collaborative, this is Klein’s first public art installation. While her background is rooted in fiber arts as an avid crocheter, she has expanded her creative practice into painting.
“It was exciting to be able to create an installation for my community that represents the environment in a fun and vibrant way,” Klein said. “Thank you to everyone who made it possible.”
The Willoughby Arts Collaborative recently announced the completion of a painted sidewalk mural at Osborne Park. (Willoughby Arts Collaborative)
Klein’s mural is intended to celebrate the diverse fish species of Lake Erie in a pop art style. Her design features lake fish rendered in bright colors intended to command attention. Additionally, each fish is styled with exaggerated features and vivid hues against a contrasting background, creating a dynamic visual experience that brings the underwater ecosystem to street level.
The composition of the mural also suggests movement as if the fish are swimming through the urban environment, intended to connect viewers to the natural heritage of Lake Erie. Some species are common to the lake and others highlight ongoing conversation efforts, bringing attention to the ecological richness and environmental stewardship of the region.
The Arts Collaborative stated they are grateful to the city for making this project possible as the installation transforms an ordinary stretch of sidewalk into a celebration of Willoughby’s connection to Lake Erie.
“We are proud of Grace’s work and excited for its addition to Willoughby’s art collection,” the organization stated in a press release.
Klein earned a bachelor’s degree from The Ohio State University in Psychology with minors in addiction and substance abuse, as well as American Sign Language. She was also a student athlete and Big 10 champion in women’s rowing.
Klein is currently commuting to Youngstown State University to finish her master’s degree in hopes of becoming a school psychologist.
Her mural is located along the split rail fence between the pool and pavilion area at Osborne Park. The Arts Collaborative will be hosting an unveiling ceremony at 2 p.m. Sept. 13 at 38575 Lakeshore Blvd.