Hear Bob and Lynn Ocken talk about the story of their visit to Alaska and their hopes for Cedar Rapids.
The idea of creating a “trail of murals” began when two Cedar Rapidians, Bob and Lynn Ocken, were visiting the small town of Seward, Alaska. They discovered various murals telling the story of the town, its people and culture. As they wandered from mural to mural, they became fascinated with the possibilities this concept could bring to the Cedar Rapids community, particularly after the devastation of the 2008 flood.
Upon returning home, instead of forgetting about the idea, Lynn discussed the possibilities with many local organizations and community leaders. Lynn was met with so much enthusiasm and encouragement that she enlisted the help of others to move the idea to fruition to bring a trail of murals to Cedar Rapids.
And now what once started as an idea in Alaska is being put into action in Cedar Rapids. With the Ocken’s efforts and support of community members, the inaugural mural was unveiled in May 2012 in downtown Cedar Rapids.