"Leaves Unfolding" Art Mural

The Friends of the Oro Valley Public Library (FOVPL) and Irma Sankman (FOVPL Board of Directors member) asked Artist Gail Munden if she would design and paint an art mural for the Library. Irma and Gail have known each other for many years through their involvement at the Southern Arizona Arts & Cultural Alliance (SAACA). Gail, who is a SAACA board member, volunteered her time to do the research, layout and design (including many of the photographs) for the book “Excellence by Design: A Visual History of Public Art in Oro Valley, Arizona”.

The art mural includes the theme of the “Tree of Knowledge” sculpture by Artist Joe A. Tyler. With contemporary and “mid-century modern” elements requested by Jane Peterson (Library Services Manager), Gail researched and worked on a special design for the mural. Incorporating the library’s color scheme and the architectural lines of the building, she designed the leaf motif. The tree branches form the bookcase and mirror the shape of the entrance roof line. The book titles contain the donors names whose contributions to the library are most appreciated. The Blue Jay is the artist herself and she hopes that everyone, especially the children enjoy seeing the bird. Gail’s artistic talent is very unique and we are blessed to have her artwork at the library!