Local and regional artists are collaborating on a 140-foot long mural titled “Seasons” commissioned by Altru Health for its new hospital in Grand Forks. The mural, set to be completed by Dec. 1, features paintings from six artists that showcase the seasons, landscapes, and landmarks of North Dakota. Grand Forks native Casey Opstad is leading the project, which aims to provide comfort and relief to patients and visitors at the hospital.
Opstad, along with Minot-based artist Walter Piehl and Minot State University senior Dyana Decoteau-Dyess, are working on the panels that will make up the mural. Opstad wanted to involve local artists and source materials locally, emphasizing the importance of physically moving to the area and working on the project in person. Decoteau-Dyess’s contribution to the mural will highlight the Indigenous experience and history, particularly focusing on the reconstruction of Fort Union near Williston.
The mural will be installed in a 200-foot hallway at the hospital, providing a unique and engaging experience for viewers. Opstad hopes that the collaborative effort and diverse artwork will come together seamlessly in the end. The project is a true collaboration between artists from different backgrounds and experiences, showcasing the talent and creativity within the local and regional art community. Despite facing challenges like accommodating hospital infrastructure and working on a large-scale project, the artists are dedicated to creating a meaningful and impactful piece of art for the new hospital.
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