The Ida Bluestreak is a family-owned, small-town legend. The owners came to me because they were looking for a way to “revamp” the iconic spot for milkshakes and burgers after football games. They wanted a design that revived the exterior of the building and made kids excited to walk into the shop.

I partnered with ownership to create a design that was reminiscent of the same energy that the shop has had for decades, while also brightening the walls to make the kids feel like it’s new. It was a no-brainer that we would involve the community in painting this mural. After finalizing my design with a classic Chevy Chevelle on one side and snacks surrounding the “bluestreak” bolt on the other, the owners created a special menu just for the mural painting day.

On our community mural painting day, we hosted hundreds of locals, anywhere from 81 years old all the way down to 18 months old. The community helped me base out all of my colors in the summer sun, then went inside to cool off with a sundae. At the end of the day, I put my final touches on the building, and the mural on the Ida Bluestreak was shared all over social media and photographed by thousands.