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Bend and Warm Springs discuss roundabout artwork and a new mural program
Summary
City communications lead Renee Nichol proposed a selection process for public art at Kulie Road and Highway 20, including a selection committee with tribal participation, and described a City of Bend mural program that will seek native artists for two murals starting January 2027.
City staff and tribal representatives discussed collaborative public-art projects, including a roundabout installation and a proposed city mural program that would prioritize local and Native artists.
Renee Nichol, communications and engagement officer, described ODOT’s recommended process for roundabout art: prepare selection criteria, convene a selection committee with tribal and city representation, issue a request for proposals to regional artists, and put finalists on public display for comment before final selection.
Tribal participants described successful examples of tribal art in Warm Springs — murals, metalwork and community installations — and encouraged culturally grounded design elements such as salmon and traditional gathering scenes. They volunteered to participate in selection committees and suggested outreach to native artists.
Staff said the city plans to identify a process and committee in the next six months and aims to paint two murals beginning in January 2027, including targeted calls to native artists. No formal contract or funding decision was taken at the meeting; staff said they are exploring city funds and partner grants.
What happens next: staff will form a selection committee, draft criteria and coordinate tribal participation in artist selection and installation planning.
