A new interactive mural near the North Carolina Museum of Natural Sciences is adding a fun twist to the pedestrian experience. The sidewalk art invites people to playfully jump across painted rocks, logs, and lilypads, mimicking a creek. Inspired by the museum’s exhibits, it brings a sense of play to the street while connecting the lively displays inside, such as snapping turtles and tropical butterflies, to everyday foot traffic in downtown Raleigh, according to the City of Raleigh.
The mural, created by Raleigh-based artist Sam Greene, a SCAD alumna, serves as both a playful game for pedestrians and a showcase of elements like an Acrocanthosaurus skull, referencing the museum’s dinosaur collection. Greene’s work often features regional wildlife, as noted on the City of Raleigh Arts website. Her goal is to transform ordinary spaces with her art, using both digital tools and traditional paint.
Raleigh ArtBeats, tasked with beautifying the downtown Raleigh pavement, is a collaboration between the City of Raleigh’s Department of Transportation and Raleigh Arts; this fusion of civic and creative forces seeks to inject a dose of creativity into public walkways through such temporary art projects. The program empowers artists like Greene to connect with the community in a direct and interactive manner, breathing new life into Raleigh's urban landscape.
The science museum gains an added point of interest through the mural, attracting both residents and visitors. More information about Greene’s work and the Raleigh ArtBeats initiative is available on the City of Raleigh Arts website, which highlights the work of local artists in public spaces.
