‘Sunshine for your soul’: Bend artist’s latest work isn’t on a wall – it’s on a stairway in the Old Mill District

BEND, Ore. (KTVZ) – A new street mural by Bend artist Evan Namkung now greets visitors to the Old Mill District from a unique perspective.

Located on the steps between Francesca’s and Ben & Jerry’s in the district, just behind Regal Cinemas, you can see the mural when looking back at the stairway from below, a colorful, geometric design depicting three separate paintings with one overarching theme. Titled “Birds of the River Trail,” the artwork showcases feathered friends that visitors to the district would see as they walk along the Deschutes River trail.

“Like so many of us who live here, I've spent a lot of time running and walking the river trail, and always enjoy the diversity in bird life that is found on and around the Deschutes River,” Namkung said. “My art is heavily influenced by a deep appreciation of wildlife and the natural world, as well as a lifelong love and passion for street art.”

Composed of three separate murals and depicting three types of birds, the eye-catching painting becomes a tiered, connected piece of street art that inspires a visitor’s natural curiosity. Namkung said his hope is to transform otherwise boring or basic public spaces, such as stairways, into something magical and beautiful.

Bria Holub, Event Manager for the Old Mill District, likened Namkung’s mural to “sunshine for your soul.” A recommendation from Scalehouse Gallery led Holub and the district to Namkung.

“I would describe his mural as a kaleidoscope of colors that draws you into an immersive artistic wonderland,” Holub said. “I anticipate visitors to the Old Mill District will appreciate the visually stunning artwork and the connection to all the natural beauty that surrounds us here in the Old Mill District.”

Using spray paints, and with many hours of concept drawing and design in advance, the project took Namkung four days to complete – from July 1 to July 4. With the Hayden Homes Amphitheater concert season in full swing, not to mention the Independence Day holiday, he wanted to finish the job in one sitting, too, so as to not disrupt the heavy foot traffic of the district.

Namkung’s art and murals take his love of street art and mix in geometry, architecture and the natural world. The color palette is vibrant and non-traditional, inspiring curiosity but also grabbing the attention of visitors. It was a perfect fit for the Old Mill District.

“Our goal is to always be able to support the arts however we can,” Holub said. “Evan’s work is so dynamic, it's the kind that you’d hunt around town to find his latest and greatest creation. I encourage folks to explore more of his work around town.”

Namkung’s murals can be seen not only in the Old Mill District, but also on the downtown Bend parking garage and St. Vincent de Paul of Bend. His paintings are on display in Bend at Layor Art + Supply with an upcoming show at Legum Design starting in September.

About the Old Mill District     
Celebrating more than 20 years as one of the Pacific Northwest’s most distinctive and dynamic mixed-use developments, the Old Mill District is located on 270 acres that formerly housed one of the largest sawmill operations in the world. The rich history of the land is coupled with spectacular mountain views, scenic river vistas and an extensive trail system to enjoy the outdoors. More than 55 local, regional, and national retailers and businesses call the Old Mill District home. Bend’s Old Mill District – the most unique shopping, dining, living, and entertainment experience in the region. www.oldmilldistrict.com.