Jay County Mural Project Receives Funding, Installation Planned for Fall 2026

A long-anticipated community art initiative is officially moving forward in Jay County. After nearly two years of planning, collaboration, fundraising, and grant writing, the Jay County Mural Project has officially secured the funding needed to bring the vision to life.

The mural will be painted on the Jay County Community Resource Center building located at 118 S. Meridian Street, Portland, IN 47371. It will serve as a vibrant public art piece designed to celebrate the community while enhancing the visual appeal of the space. Project creation is expected to begin in Fall 2026.

Funding for the project was made possible through a combination of grants and local contributions, totaling $6,000. Support includes a $4,000 Project Support FY2026 grant from the Indiana Arts Commission, along with a $1,000 donation from Jay County Commissioner Duane Monroe, and a $1,000 donation from Mayor Westlake of Portland.

The East Central Indiana Regional Planning District (ECIRPD) also contributed to the project through labor, project facilitation, and associated in-house services to help support the mural’s completion and coordination.

The mural will be created by Marie McKinley, a local Jay County artist selected for the project. Beyond installation, the project also includes funding for ongoing care and upkeep, helping ensure the mural remains a lasting and well-maintained piece of public art for the community.

Community leaders and project supporters see the mural as an investment in placemaking, local creativity, and community pride. Public art projects like this not only enhance shared spaces but also help tell the story of the communities they represent.

As work begins later this year, the Jay County Mural Project marks an exciting milestone for the community and reflects the strong collaboration between local organizations, leadership, and residents who helped bring the vision to life.

Community members are encouraged to share their input on what they would like to see represented in the mural. Please take a few moments to complete this short survey to help guide the themes, imagery, and overall vision of the mural so it reflects the identity and story of the community:

Click HERE to take the survey.