Mural in Process to brighten Salem Lutheran Church

Salem Lutheran Church is nearly 125 years old, but it hardly lacks modern life. The church community is present in many places around the West Central neighborhood, including community gardens, Global Neighborhood Thrift, The Book Parlor, and Indaba Coffee. They are proud of the “open-door” nature and clearly enjoy ministry from pastor Liv Larson.

Indaba Coffee is the “front porch” to Salem Lutheran. It’s cozy and casual, and the church building is easily visible just across the street.  Salem’s façade is prominent and familiar in the neighborhood, but it doesn’t quite reflect the church’s personality in generosity and warmth. Liv Larson came to WACy this past September to offer us the opportunity to set up interactive art projects at Salem Lutheran’s first West Central Arts Festival. Hannah and I returned in mid-November to join a staff meeting to discuss a future project for the church: a mural.

A mural would refresh Salem Lutheran’s exterior and better convey its connection with the neighborhood. They want to translate a historical background (Swedish), diversity and love for the environment surrounding West Central.  We also looked at a few examples of imagery, from an illustrated paraphrase of the Bible, Manna and Mercy by Daniel Erlander, and work by John August Swanson, whose work on the cover of a book in the church office inspired what some figures in the mural could look like.

After the meeting, Liv, Hannah and I walked across the street to visit with some of the staff in Indaba for further ideas for a mural. Ultimately, Gabie and I realized that there was a division in interests in color and tone: some people are excited for a vibrant, energetic painting on the front of the church and others are interested in natural earthy tones and calm blues. But everyone we talked to was enthusiastic about the project.  The design is in process to create another beautiful presence representing Salem Lutheran Church on West Broadway St.

Salem Lutheran Church: 1425 West Broadway, Spokane WA 99201

salemlutheranspokane.com