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Safford council reviews three library mural proposals, tables artist selection until July
Summary
Three finalists pitched designs for a new 628-square-foot north-wall mural at the Safford City–Graham County Library. Council praised all proposals and directed staff to gather feedback and revisit designs at the July 27 meeting after posting finalists for community input.
The Safford Mayor and City Council heard presentations from three finalists for a planned library mural and decided to delay a final artist selection to gather additional feedback.
Staff said 28 applications were received and three finalists were invited to present concept proposals for the 628-square-foot mural on the north exterior wall facing 8th Street. Each finalist explained design intent and process: Camilla presented a community-centered “more than just a good read” concept that incorporates local programs and community paint-day events; Clyde proposed a regional narrative using sparrows, Mount Graham and desert blooms; and Molly Keane offered a playful, large-scale design with community-engagement elements and a maintenance plan.
Camilla emphasized community participation, saying she often hosts "paint by number" events so residents can help fill in the mural and suggested elements such as the library’s reading badges and a local turtle character as a bookmark. Clyde described using yellow‑bellied sparrows and large desert blooms to reflect the Sonoran-desert–to–alpine landscape around Mount Graham. Molly highlighted her experience with team-building murals and durability measures including anti-graffiti coatings and a maintenance plan.
Council members praised the diversity of concepts and requested more community input; staff proposed posting finalists on the city’s Facebook page and returning with consolidated feedback at the council meeting of July 27. The council moved and approved tabling the selection and directed staff to solicit public comments and bring refined concepts back at the next meeting.
