September 12, 2024:
Keep Mansfield Beautiful is embarking on a major restoration project for a beloved local landmark: the 462-foot long mural depicting the town's history.
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Follow the Mural Story
Original Mural Story
History of the Mural
Step back into 2013-2015
The mural was worked on over a few year period of 2013-2014 and unveiled on Sept 19, 2015 at which time local artist Ian Gaudreau was awarded the "History Award" for his work. The Mural was funded by grants and generous donations from Mansfield residents, businesses, and local businesses.
Phase I
Cleaning and Touch Ups
As the mural approached its 10th year weathering the New England elements it is time to take proactive measures to assess and address the mural's current state. It was found the paint is in overall good shape, colors are still bright and well adhered to the wall. It was also found that the wall has some minor cracks and more severe areas of mineral seepage that is causing a thick streak of limescale build up.
New Art
As time permits in the fall of 2024 some additions will be made to the mural. More information to come on this phase.
Phase II
Repainting Problem Areas
After deep cleaning there will be areas of the mural exposed and thinning. Phase II will repaint the areas, prepping the mural for recoating with anti-graffiti varnish.
Phase III
Phase IV
Completion and Unveiling
Keep Mansfield Beautiful has plans to hold an unveiling gathering aligned with Mansfield's 250th Anniversary in 2025. Stay Tuned for more information.
About the Artist
Ian Gaudreau is a Providence-based visual artist specializing in large-scale public murals and fine art painting. Originally from Mansfield, MA, Gaudreau has deep ties to the community, where his work, including the iconic Mansfield Mural, has become a local landmark. A graduate of Mansfield High School, Gaudreau dedicated his work on the mural to his high school art teacher, Lee Anne Withelmson, who first inspired him to become an artist. With a BFA from the Rhode Island School of Design, his work blends intricate narrative techniques with bold, immersive designs, aiming to connect communities to their histories and shared experiences through visual storytelling. His murals can be found in public spaces across New England, earning recognition for their cultural significance and aesthetic impact.
Ian admits he was not able to resist the temptation to include himself in the work, and has himself standing as a boy with his earliest mentor, Lee Ann Wilhelmson, an art teacher at Mansfield High who died about 10 years ago. “In the mural, I’m showing her the work I would have shown her if she was still alive,” Gaudreau said. “She was really my inspiration. I believe if you do a good work, it always speaks for itself.”
"With my roots in Mansfield, it was a privilege to create this mural, and it’s amazing to see how well it has held up over the years,” said artist Ian Gaudreau. “I’m honored to restore it now and help keep it a meaningful part of the community."