New Canal mural added to Orleans County YMCA

Arthur Barnes creates ‘magical’ scene, his fifth canal-themed mural

Photos by Tom Rivers

MEDINA – Arthur Barnes is shown installing a mural today at the Orleans County YMCA facing West Avenue on a brick building near Lee Place.

This is the fifth Erie Canal-themed mural Barnes has created.

Barnes used a scene near the Allens Bridge Road canal bridge on the west end of Albion for inspiration.

“The picture of the home and bridge was important not only to this canal community, but it’s the Y’s desire to be building bridges to the home and connecting the community to health and wellness,” said Greg Reed, YMCA executive director.

Barnes said he painted the sky five different times with a striking sunset that reflects in the canal water.

“I was trying to do something magical instead of a tourism brochure,” Barnes said.

He used mural paint on a special plywood suitable for murals.

Barnes was assisted in the installation today by his friends, Leon Jonathan and his sister Deanna Jonathan.

Barnes said he has some touching up to do on the painting, and needs to add his signature.

This project was funded through a grant from the Genesee-Orleans Regional Arts Council.