Unless you park behind it, you might miss the blue and white mural on the south wall of Ypsilanti City Hall.
The City Hall Mural by Jermaine Dickerson is a whoosh of color as you drive by on one-way Huron Street into downtown Ypsilanti, Michigan.
But if you’re walking on the sidewalk, take a moment to find the iconic reminders of Ypsilanti past and present.
About the Mural
Installed in the summer of 2016, the City Hall Mural depicts Ypsilanti landscapes, icons, and architecture.
Wonderful to learn the artist has a connection to Ypsilanti: Dickerson graduated from Eastern Michigan University with a Bachelor in Fine Arts in graphic design.
At the time the mural was created, Dickerson was a local artist.
I didn’t realize the significance of some features in the mural until I read the City of Ypsilanti’s press release (PDF: 132K) from June 22, 2016 when the mural was unveiled.
What I learned:
- A figurine represents Ypsilanti Underwear Factory (Who knew Ypsilanti was known for producing quality underwear in the late 1800’s and early 1900’s? I didn’t.)
- The bee indicates Ypsilanti is an official Bee City USA affiliate (one of 147 affiliates in 2021)
- A rubber duck represents the Kiwanis Duck Race at the annual Ypsilanti’s Heritage Festival
I’m assuming, but can’t confirm, the eagle in the mural represents Eastern Michigan University.
Sadly, the trees on the street obscure a good view of the mural in my photo.
The City of Ypsilanti has a copy of the mural (JPG: 147K) on their website, where you can see all the features.
If you live in the area, have you noticed the City Hall Mural on Huron Street?
