“The one who plants trees, knowing that he will never sit in their shade, has at least started to understand the meaning of life.”
Artist Anna Murphy took inspiration from the above words of poet Rabindranath Tagore as she created these portraits of 43 people whose contributions and legacies helped shape Indianapolis between 1820 and 2020. The mural, a celebration of the city’s Bicentennial, also shines with hope, vision and possibilities for the future.
The 43 legends are surrounded by plants, flowers and animals that have symbolic connections to each person, honoring the journeys of both those who were born in Indiana and those born in another state or country. Indiana’s state bird, the Northern Cardinal, is featured, along with native animals and insects, some classified as endangered. Murphy’s depictions of nature represent the fragility of life, and our responsibility to protect it and plant the seeds for the next generation.
Artist Johnathon Arce and apprentice Phyllicia Carr assisted Murphy. The mural was painted from July to September, 2023.
The mural was installed with the support and participation of
The City of Indianapolis Bicentennial Commission
The Capital Improvement Board of Managers of Marion County
Pacers Sports & Entertainment
Indiana Humanities
Indy Arts Council
And a committee of over 40 Indianapolis community leaders
