Letter to the Editor: ArtHaus walls now display an impressive work of art

Posted: Sat, Oct 17, 2020 11:46 AM

(The following Letter to the Editor has been submitted by H. P. Jorgensen of Decorah):

"I'm writing to congratulate artist Mathew Havran and ArtHaus on the spectacular new mural on two sides (three sides, actually!) of the ArtHaus building at 107 E. Broadway. It is truly a triumph. If you haven't seen it, please take a little time when you are in Decorah to take a long look. There's a lot to see! Already, folks have been charmed and excited to see this expansive and impressive work of art.

Murals are arguably the earliest form of art. From the cave paintings of Lascaux, France, to the Works Progress Administration (WPA) murals of the Franklin Delano Roosevelt era, to the famed murals of Mexico, murals have informed, enchanted and often challenged the thinking of persons in the public square. Muraling is different than painting on canvas for private viewing, where the artist can focus entirely on his/her personal vision. Muralists are best when they reveal common cultural imagery, propose community activities and reveal a common purpose.

Havran's mural more than meets those criteria. The ArtHaus walls now display an important and appropriate piece of public art and is a great addition to Decorah's mural inventory. Let's have more murals!"