Tacoma: New Downtown Pride-Themed Mural Celebrates Stormwater Pollution Prevention
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~ Tacoma, Washington - The City of Tacoma has unveiled a new downtown mural with a Pride theme that also aims to raise awareness about stormwater pollution prevention. The mural, located at the corner of South 9th Street and Pacific Avenue and South 9th and A streets, was created by the city's new Public Works Artist-in-Residence, Natalie Dupille.

With support from the Environmental Services Department and the Community and Economic Development Department's Arts and Cultural Vitality Division, Dupille used her talents as a cartoonist, writer, and illustrator to bring this project to life. Her work often focuses on relationships, social issues, and the natural world.

"I was honored and thrilled to be asked to create a pride mural as my first project," said Dupille. "This project was a way for me to not only celebrate the many different identities our community is comprised of but also to advocate for a clean Puget Sound by highlighting the beautiful array of sexes and sexualities that exist in the natural world as well."

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The mural is part of the award-winning "If It Hits the Ground, It Hits the Sound" campaign, which aims to educate people about preventing stormwater pollution in Commencement Bay and surrounding waters. The addition of a Pride theme aligns with the city's efforts to celebrate its queer community.

Mayor Victoria Woodards expressed her gratitude towards Dupille for her stunning work. "This work of art will add to Tacoma's beauty for years to come and speaks volumes about Tacoma's values - which include critical support, inclusion, and celebration of our LGBTQIA+ residents as well as a focus on environmental consciousness," she said.

Council Member Olgy Diaz also shared her excitement about the new mural. "Adding this stunning public art in our bustling downtown core where residents, workers, and guests can join in our celebration of our queer and questioning community year-round is affirming and educational for all," she said. "I'm moved by the way the mural highlights the connection between the diversity in our community and the amazing diversity we see in nature and reminds us all how we are all connected and part of a movement to keep our water and natural resources clean and healthy."

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Council Member Kristina Walker echoed similar sentiments, stating that the mural is not only beautiful but also a reminder of Tacoma's pride in its queer community. "Natalie Dupille has created an amazing work of art that brightens up our streets and makes us think," she said. "We are so fortunate that she has joined the City as an Artist-in-Residence."

Dupille's previous collaborations with public works and city organizations, including an award-winning project with Seattle Public Utilities, have proven her ability to effectively communicate complex information through art. Her work has been featured in various local and national publications, such as The Stranger, the New Yorker, and the Los Angeles Times.

The new mural is a testament to Tacoma's commitment to celebrating diversity and promoting environmental consciousness. It serves as a reminder for residents and visitors alike to take care of their surroundings and protect their natural resources.

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