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BAR approves postcard-style mural and Patsy Cline tribute at 331 W. Boscawen St.
Summary
The board approved a mural by property owner Michael Black at 331 West Boscawen Street featuring a vintage-postcard motif and a public photo-op nod to Patsy Cline; staff said the painted mural is allowed on the building—s finished façade and is not treated as signage.
The Winchester Board of Architectural Review on March 6 unanimously approved a mural proposed for the side façade of the Working Man store at 331 West Boscawen Street that uses a vintage-postcard motif and includes a tribute to Patsy Cline.
Owner Michael (Mike) Black presented the artwork concept, saying the mural would be one of the first images people see as they enter Amherst Street and that it was designed as a town-facing, photo-op attraction. The left side of the composition uses a vintage-postcard treatment of the local mountain scene; the right side includes a stylized Patsy Cline image and a microphone prop to encourage visitors to pose.
Staff advised the board that the BAR guidelines discourage painting unpainted masonry on designated historic structures, but that this building is a later construction (mid-20th century) and the proposed painted surface and composition are appropriate for this façade. The board found the mural compatible with the corridor and approved BAR 25-135 as submitted. Staff confirmed the mural cannot be treated as a commercial sign in the manner of a storefront sign and noted the applicant has completed prior façade improvements such as stucco and a natural wainscot stone treatment.
The board voted to approve the mural by voice vote; staff will issue the approval letter and the applicant may proceed with installation under the city—s permitting rules for exterior painting where applicable.
