In a unique stroll through Maple Valley history, visitors can now visit underground artwork in a former railroad tunnel beneath Witte Road. The tunnel is a portion of the Cedar to Green River Trail where a mural project is nearing its second year of completion.
Last year the paintings on one side of the tunnel depicted old-time Maple Valley buildings and locales; in essence it was a history lesson told through art. Mural work continues this summer on the opposite side of the tunnel where nature takes center stage. It features local flora and fauna; foliage, trees and animals seen in and around the Maple Valley area are currently being painted.
The initial design for the murals is outlined in black lines painted by Jackie Riedel and her daughter, Chloe. Riedel is a local artist who is a Board member of MVCAC. Their designs give local families and friends the opportunity to complete the mural by painting the ferns and critters in natural colors inside the Riedel outlines. Paint By Tunnels allows an opportunity for those of any age or talent to work on a public work of art. Paint and brushes are provided.
The Maple Valley Creative Arts Council calls their project “an effort to provide access to and education in the arts.” Cedar to Green River Trail tunnel is under Witte Road on MV Community Center grounds. The trail can be accessed by a downhill stairway located behind the Gibbon Store and Railroad Museums. Further information regarding Maple Valley Creative Arts Council is available at www.maplevalleyarts.com
