HERITAGE PARK GETS WALL MURAL
A colourful mural is being painted at Heritage Park by a well-known Canadian artist who resides in Ontario. Roger Witmer is painting a copy of the cover of “More than Oil”, a collage of McMurray’s history, on the wall of the NWMP Building.
The scene has been sketched out and this week Mr. Witmer is filling in detail. He is painting directly onto the shiplap board walls that park officials think may be the original wall in the building. This building was once a used by boat builder, Joe Simone as his home and workshop. It is now home to the Northwest Mounted Police, Alberta Provincial Police, Royal Canadian Mounted Police, Magistrates, and the Military exhibitions.
The inspiration for the original collage came from the artist’s reading of Frances Jean’s book “More than Oil.” Roger Witmer also did illustrations in the 324 page book of short stories that focus on people who contributed to the growth and culture of our community. The book is available at Heritage Park Gift Shop.
Witmer calculates it will take ten to twelve days to complete the 7 ft x 8 ft mural and acrylic paint is being used to complete the mural. Visitors are welcome to drop by Heritage Park and watch the artist at work.
If you would like more information, please contact Roseann Davidson at 780-791-7575 ext. 228, or e-mail execdirector@fortmcmurrayhistory.com
