A mural will be painted in downtown Washington this summer. Debbie Stanton, Director of the Washington Public Library, explained at this week’s City Counil meeting that a student from the University of Iowa will be installing the art on the alley side of the library at no cost to the city.

The Master of Fine Arts student Erin Rappleye explains the design she would like to use is of Grant Wood’s American Gothic in front of a cross section of a corn cob. Rappleye adds she may alter the woman’s arm to make it look as though she is shushing. Councilman Bob Shepherd added it shows humour, whimsy and is a bit like Escher’s work.

The two-story mural may also be installed with assistance from Washington High School students involved in the Art Club. Stanton explained work will begin as soon as the library board approves of the design.