Washougal arts group seeks mural artists

Washougal’s next public artwork will highlight the diversity of the city’s history and culture.

The Washougal Arts and Culture Alliance (WACA) is seeking artists to create a mural on the south-facing exterior wall of Los Dos Compadres Cantina, located at 1713 “E” St., Washougal.

“We are always on the lookout for sites for public art that will be enjoyed by many people in Washougal, both residents and visitors,” Kelli Rule, WACA’s president, said. “Los Dos is on one of the busiest corners in the city, and it’s a wide palette just yearning for some art. Colorful artwork inspired by Mexico is everywhere inside Los Dos; a vibrant mural outside will both grace our environment and draw attention to one of Washougal’s beloved restaurants. We brought the idea to (Los Dos Compadres Cantina manager) Gerardo Navarro and he was on board immediately. Everybody wins.”

Navarro told the Post-Record he’s excited about the project.

“We’re right there on the corner, a lot of cars drive by there, and people will be able to see the mural,” he said “Also, we’re (introducing) outside seating this summer, so we’ll build a patio in front of the mural, which could bring business to us and be good for the community as well. I think it (helps) both ways.”

Los Dos Compadres owner Faustino Navarro will help to select the winning design.

“We left the criteria of the mural pretty open so as not to limit creativity,” Rule said. “We are hoping to see outside-the-box proposals that celebrate Washougal’s natural beauty, history and Mexican, Latinx and/or indigenous heritages — and of course, something that packs a big visual punch.”

WACA will accept proposals through June 1, and plans to notify the winning artist on June 15.

The group expects the mural will be completed by the end of the summer.

For more information, visit washougalarts.org.