A team of UALR art students, led by artist Matt McLeod, is helping paint a mural at the corner of Sixth and Main Streets in Little Rock in the heart of the developing Creative Corridor.

The painting, “Beneath The Surface,” depicts a scene of a koi pond viewed from above.

“We’re excited to have a significant group of our students participate in this unique project,” said Tom Clifton, chair of the Art Department at UALR.

“We see this as a great opportunity to have some of our fine art students gain some first-hand experience participating in a public art project. We strive to involve our students with the working community in fields of their studies and the mural project fits our criteria perfectly,” he said.

McLeod received an art grant from the Educational Foundation of America to complete the project. He worked with building owners Bob and Victor Oliver; the owners of Bennett’s Military Supply, Sheree and Doug Meyer; and members of the City of Little Rock, to develop an image he said everyone could feel good about.

“I presented several creative concepts including sections of paintings I had already created as possible layouts. Everyone kept coming back to the idea of the koi. I think the image of the brightly colored fish floating amid all the concrete buildings is intriguing.”

So, why fish? “Because it’s art,” McLeod said.

UALR students and alumni participating in the project include:

• Lane Chapman of Little Rock
• Madeline Qualls of Maumelle
• Zach Blair of Little Rock
• Shae House of Little Rock
• Alumna Erin Hayes
• Alumna Jennifer Perren

For more information about the Sixth and Main Street Mural Project, call Matt McLeod with Matt McLeod Fine Art at 501.837.4491.