It is at James D. Kreigh Park. It is painted on a utility wall near the aquatic center. The mural faces the park. Artist Ashley White painted the mural. The mural is a project funded by the Greater Oro Valley Chamber of Commerce,Visit Tucson and the Town of Oro Valley. The Southern Arizona Arts Council sponsored the project. This past Monday was the ribbon cutting. Council Members Harry Green and Tim Bohen attended the event, as well as former Mayor Paul Loomis.
Noting the number of youth practicing various sports, President of the Chamber Dave Perry noted that "This is the place kids pursue this sort of stuff" before turning the event over to Artist White for her comments.
White explained at the opening ceremony that the expression used, "Dream it, then do it" were those of Jim Kreigh's. White is a commercial artist, designing various spaces such as restaurants. "One of the things I always do is look at who is going to be there and what do they appreciate. When I was here I notices so many different kinds of people... I wanted anyone who came here to be able to connect" with the mural.
White research Oro Valley's founder Jim Kreigh. "I read a lot about him..his mission... his hard work and dedication... and how he wanted the town yo have control over its own destiny. It was not an easy process for him." White noted that Kreigh had a vision and a goal. "I went through those giant scrapbooks that his wife made." She also watched a video about Jim talking about the time. "The very last thing he said in the video: 'If you have a dream of something to be done, then do it." (link 26:01 mins)
In the process of creating the mural, residents were requested to submit their "dreams" in four words or less. (LOVE posting). Many of these dreams are written on the mural. One of White's goals was to share he dreams of people of all ages.. from "Mac and Cheese to Running a Marathon." Other dreams, like a "Happy and healthy family", "To be accepted" and "Kindness for all others" are universal. Some are aspirational like "travel in a RV" and "Live near the ocean."
Next time you are at Kreigh Park do take a moment to look at the mural both from afar and then close up. We guarantee that it is worth the moment.
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About the artist: Ashley White is a commercial artist working in Southern Arizona and beyond under the business name Modern Aquarian. She specializes in custom designed hand painted signs, murals, and other artwork for businesses and public spaces. Her passion is helping business owners create functional and charismatic spaces and contributing to the visual character of cities. See more of Ashley's work on Instagram or Facebook @ModernAquarian or ModernAquarian.com
