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Devin DuMond, a faculty member at Kendall College of Art and Design (KCAD) has been teaching a Mural Illustration course over the summer. DuMond, who started her mural work over five years ago, has contributed to the $110 million expansion of Concourse A at Gerald R. Ford International Airport in Michigan. The artist believes murals bring art to public spaces, making art more accessible and integrated into daily life.
Devin DuMond Transforms Spaces through the Art of Mural Illustration
Devin DuMond, KCAD faculty member and multitalented artist, has spent their summer instructing students in the art of public murals. As part of their Mural Illustration course, they’ve allowed students to work directly on KCAD’s walls, offering them hands-on experience with different techniques, client collaboration, and contracts.
DuMond’s dual roles as an artist and educator highlight their dedication to fostering talent and making a lasting impact on the community through vibrant public art.
“Murals bring art to public spaces,” DuMond explains. “Unlike art found only in galleries or museums, murals connect directly with the public, creating engaging experiences wherever you are.”
DuMond is one of six local artists who contributed to the recent expansion of Concourse A at Gerald R. Ford International Airport. The $110 million expansion features custom terrazzo flooring, an aerial art installation, and murals. This initiative hopes to enhance travel experiences by showcasing West Michigan’s natural beauty to people worldwide.
DuMond’s mural, “Twilight on the Rapids,” integrates the architectural forms of Grand Rapids with the organic shapes of the Grand River and lush landscapes.
Having graduated from KCAD in 2005 and 2010 with a Bachelor of Fine Arts degree in Illustration and Master of Fine Arts respectively, DuMond began their mural work five years ago. Starting with a project for their yoga studio, DuMond has expanded their portfolio to about 10 murals throughout West Michigan, thanks to referrals.
With murals rising in popularity, especially in the Grand Rapids area, DuMond envisages a shift towards more diverse artistic perspectives and styles. Their third year teaching the mural class at KCAD attests to the growing interest among students in mastering mural art skills.
As the demand for public murals increases, leading to the creation of mural tours, DuMond shares some of their mural works that would be part of such tours:
Ford Airport Mural: A detailed grid design that displays a cityscape and houses inspired by DuMond’s hometown of Grand Rapids, found at gate A9 at Gerald R. Ford International Airport.
12th House Mural: A large zodiac wheel with the 12 astrological signs and significant flowers, found at The 12th House, 8 Jefferson Ave. SE, Grand Rapids.
Matchbox Diner Mural: A celebration of the Eastown neighborhood, found at Matchbox Diner, 1345 Lake Drive SE, Grand Rapids.
Third Nature Brewing Mural: Geometric forms juxtaposed with scenes from nature, found at Third Nature Brewing Co, 7733 Childsdale Ave. NE, Rockford.
Van Andel Arena Mural: Illustrations of events and features of the arena, situated in the suite entrance at Van Andel Arena, Grand Rapids.
Visit Designed in Michigan to learn more about the expansive role of design in Michigan’s past, present, and future, made possible through the support of Kendall College of Art and Design and Landscape Forms.
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