Alderman Automotive & Koda Witsken partner to install community-engaged art
Artist Koda Witsken is installing a large-scale mural on the exterior facade of Alderman Automotive, 13875 Trade Center Drive, Fishers.
The mural, which is in part funded by the City of Fishers through Fishers Arts & Culture Business Matching Grant program, will be highly visible from State Road 37 and from the Pinhead’s parking lot. The mural design was created with help from Fishers’ residents.
The City of Fishers used to go by many names. One such name was “Mudsock,” referring to the knee-high mud that caked horses as carriages pulled through the city. The name is now associated with local organizations and sports events. In celebration of Fishers’ continued history as a “smart, vibrant, entrepreneurial” meeting place for people, commerce, and culture, the Alderman Automotive mural will honor the Mudsock theme by incorporating references to local horses.
Fishers residents submitted more than 150 photos of their horses to inspire the design. Ultimately, images submitted by Kate Owen, Brenda Palmer, and Shayna Crooks were selected as inspiration.
Owen, a Fishers resident and horse owner, said she is particularly excited. Of the project, she said, “I am overwhelmed, excited, all the feelings, that my horse was chosen to be a part of [this] beautiful mural! Avalena [one of Owen’s horses that is depicted in the mural design] passed away in November, so this is so very special to me. I can’t wait to watch the progress!”
To celebrate the mural’s completion, Witsken is partnering with Fishers Parks to host an informal, free unveiling event from 10 a.m. to noon on Saturday, Aug. 19 in the Alderman Automotive parking lot. There will be kids coloring activities, professional photo opportunities with the mural, a visit from Spirit (the beloved Fishers Agripark horse), a food truck, and the completed artwork. All are invited to attend with family and friends.
“When I was approached with this mural opportunity, I knew I wanted to engage Fishers residents in the design process to add bright, meaningful artwork to the Fishers’ landscape,” Witsken said. “We wanted to further brand Fishers as a smart, entrepreneurial, and vibrant community, and I feel like we’ve done just that!”
About Hue Murals
Established in 2018, Hue Murals is an art installation and consulting business centered on the work of artist Koda Witsken. Hue Murals strives to create art that helps businesses, spaces, and people rise “a shade above” – a little brighter, and a lot more united. Learn more about Hue Murals at huemuralsbykoda.com or on social media @huemurals.