Nine teens took part in a mural contest, sponsored by Syracuse and North Webster libraries. Shown from left are Adriana Michael, Aspyn Smith, Abby German, Julia Stover, Oliver Compton, Carter Wolfe and Anna Miller. Not pictured: Emma Hunt and Maeve Harman.

Text and Photos
By Phoebe Muthart
InkFreeNews

NORTH WEBSTER — Nine teens unveiled their winning murals Monday, Aug. 11, at North Webster Community Public Library. Four murals were chosen by the public for artistic creativity.

The artists were selected as winners of the teen art contest, which was co-sponsored by the Syracuse Public Library and NWCPL. As part of their prize, the winning teens were invited to bring their designs to life as large-scale murals — transforming their creative visions into permanent public art.

This vibrant art project was a community effort. In addition to the time and talent of the young artists, local businesses, Matthews Painting Company and Maumee Paint and Supplies, donated time, materials and labor to help make the project possible. The result is a colorful and meaningful addition to the library’s outdoor space — one that reflects the imagination and dedication of North Webster’s next generation.

NWCPL unveiled the vibrant new look for the library’s privacy fence, thanks to the creativity of the local teens and the generosity of the community partners.

The teens who took part in the mural contest are: Adriana Michael, Aspyn Smith, Abby German, Julia Stover, Oliver Compton, Carter Wolfe, Anna Miller, Emma Hunt and Maeve Harman.

This past winter, NWCPL partnered with the Syracuse Public Library to host a teen art contest inviting young artists to dream big and design murals to enhance the library’s outdoor space. After a round of community voting, the winning designs were selected and now those visions have come to life.

Each of the four sides of the privacy fence feature a unique mural, painted by the teen artists themselves, transforming the once plain structure into a colorful celebration of youth creativity and community spirit.

Visitors were encouraged to stop by the library to admire the artwork and support the talented teens who made it possible, like Oliver Compton, 14.

“I believe learning helps grow minds, like flowers,” he said.

The unveiling event included light refreshments and an opportunity to meet the artists and celebrate their achievements. Friends, family and members of the community attended, supporting these young artists, like Abby German, 14, who said “there were some good artists.”

NWCPL Director Keith Kuric said he applauds the parents who helped bring the teens to the site of the murals, amid busy schedules and a hot summer.

“What we’ve experienced is amazing and it helps celebrate and support the arts,” he said.

Shown is one of the murals chosen to be featured outside the library.

Abby German stands by a mural she helped create. It was one of four chosen by the public to be displayed at NWCPL.