Chippewa Valley Times

Two students from the University of Wisconsin-Stout, Allison Seanor and Megan McDowell, have completed mural projects in different parts of the world, showcasing how art can bring communities together.

Allison Seanor, an art education major from Wausau, participated in a city-wide mural festival in Florence, Italy. Her work, titled "To Travel is to Understand," was part of the Palazzuolo Strada Aperta festival. The mural reflects on mass tourism's impact on Florence through the perspective of an American student. "It is a message of unity and shared respect," Seanor explained. She hopes her work will help bridge the gap between tourists and locals.

The centerpiece of Seanor's mural is a portrait of her Italian teacher, Maria Antonietta. "Maria was my inspiration," she said. Seanor also expressed satisfaction with how the project pushed her personal boundaries: "I’m very happy with the results... It’s not so easy to leave your comfort zone."

Meanwhile, Megan McDowell, an animation and digital media major from Albertville, Minnesota, created a mural for Koala Dental Care in St. Cloud. The design combines Minnesota visuals with dental care objects in an abstract collage meant to engage children visiting the office. "These are two completely different topics... I had to be creative," McDowell stated.

McDowell credits courses at UW-Stout for providing her with mural creation skills. She helped design and paint a mural for UW-Stout’s School of Art and Design as part of her coursework. Professor Cynthia Bland noted that McDowell's work exemplifies how students can transition into professional muralists.

After graduating this spring, McDowell is pursuing freelance work while seeking full-time opportunities. She aims to continue painting murals: "What I love most about animation and digital media is the storytelling."

In 2026, Menomonie will host Murals in Menomonie featuring Walldogs artists to enhance community spaces through public art.