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Cultural commission awards two public-restroom murals to artist Mariah Reading
Summary
The Bangor Cultural Commission voted to award two public-restroom mural commissions to artist Mariah Reading; exact contract details and timetable were discussed with installation targeted for July if panels and schedules align.
The Bangor Cultural Commission voted to award two public-restroom mural commissions to artist Mariah Reading after reviewing three applications for two sites downtown and at the waterfront.
The commission’s presentation showed three applicants — Mariah Reading, Jocelyn Stouthite and Wyren Higgins — and discussed each proposal’s concept and local connections. Reading’s proposals were noted for tying the artwork to nearby natural and historic features; commissioners said her work suggested a cohesive visual approach across both sites.
Commission staff confirmed the city will provide the panels and that staff member Tracy will coordinate fabrication and installation logistics with Reading. Commissioners discussed timing and noted a target to have at least the library restroom piece installed in time for early July events if schedules permit.
A commissioner moved, “I motion, we award both restrooms to Mariah,” and another commissioner seconded the motion. The motion passed by voice vote; the meeting record did not state a numerical roll-call tally.
Staff said they will notify all three applicants and will work with finance on next steps, including contract details, panel procurement and a possible public event after installation. The commission noted the project could coincide with other summer public-art events and that separate celebrations for each location may be considered depending on logistics.
The commission also discussed whether to award both restrooms to a single artist versus splitting the two commissions; commissioners expressed support for a single artist producing cohesive work and said they had no objections to that approach in this round.
Commission staff and members reiterated that permanent installation and long-term maintenance plans will follow standard city procedures and that the city aims to keep the murals in place “as permanent as possible,” while acknowledging eventual replacement or refresh is likely in future years.
