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Once he retired from his career as an electrician, Lyle Saethre embarked on recording the town’s history on buildings through his artwork. Photos courtesy of Mary Beams
Curious about the lively murals on buildings around town? On Saturday, August 7, come to the tent behind the Bally Blacksmith shop, across from the Co-op, between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m. to learn about the Lyle Saethre Mural Project. Step into the tent to watch a video, enjoy some snacks, see the Ship America panels, pick up a map for a walking tour and chat with Lyle’s family members as well as representatives from Art ‘Round Town, the organization behind this project.
Lyle Saethre was interested in painting from an early age. When he retired from his practical career as an electrician, he picked up a paint brush, found encouragement for his passion, and spent the rest of his life painting the story of Grand Marais on every available surface he could summon. He painted with any sort of outdoor paint he could find, and was eager to share his vision and his knowledge of history to any viewers who would ask. Lyle left this life over 10 years ago, but his murals have been delighting residents and visitors alike. Time and weather have had their impact on Lyle’s images. To preserve them as long as possible, the Lyle Saethre Mural Project aims to cover the paintings with MuralShield, an effective protective spray which seals the paint and brightens the colors, preventing further deterioration.
Support for the preservation comes from several community organizations. Art ‘Round Town’, a group dedicated to celebrating, preserving, and promoting public art, is organizing an effort to raise the funds to carry out this project, with help from the Cook County Historical Society.
Opportunity to donate to the project is available at the tent on August 7; Ann Mershon, Art ‘Round Town’s president, can be reached at (218)387-2245 to answer any further questions.
This event has been funded by grants from the Cook County Chamber of Commerce’s Great Places Project and the Cook County Visitors’ Center.
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