University of Iowa-based artist Emily Edwards painted two murals at the Mutchler Community Center in Bloomfield, IA. With input from the staff and community, the artist created a design that brings a sense of energy and excitement to the space and serves as a memorable community touchpoint. This project is part of IISC's partnership with Pathfinders RC&D. 

The Mutchler Community Center in Bloomfield, IA, is a hub for all ages. The 18,000 square-feet building was constructed in 1999 through a generous gift from local farmer Glen Mutchler. It has a full gymnasium that hosts volleyball and basketball tournaments and pickleball games, an elevated track, a large meeting space, billiards and table tennis, and a weight and fitness machine area. The center currently has almost all white walls and the director sought a more vibrant look. 

Emily used symbols that reflect the building and its environs, including sports gear and the courthouse, to capture the essence of the center and its many uses. To facilitate conversations about themes, color schemes, and symbols, Emily created a preliminary "mural design draft guide" for the community partners. the guide shows how designs emerged from themes relevant to role, function, and location of the community center, including community strength, resilience, and Midwestern pride. Emily also tapped into their own experiences having grown up on a farm in the Midwest. 

With a few slight changes, these design drawing reflect the final product installed in the Mutchler Community Center.