Blue Heron Takes Flight: Renovo Unveils Community Mural Honoring Strength and Spirit
By Autumn Gavlock
RENOVO – An eye-catching new symbol of hope and unity now graces the side of the Bucktail Medical Center Annex Building in Renovo.
Last Friday afternoon, community members, students, and local leaders gathered under clear skies to celebrate the official unveiling of The Blue Heron Mural, a collaborative public art project that has already become a source of local pride.
The mural now gracing the exterior of the Bucktail Medical Center Annex Building on Huron Avenue was designed by internationally acclaimed graffiti artist ARCY, known for his dynamic, spray paint artistry and large-scale murals across the globe. Though ARCY, a street artist from Connecticut, was not in attendance, his influence loomed large. The mural, created on three individual panels, was both carefully planned and spontaneously executed, reflecting his trademark style. A playful hidden surprise, Mickey Mouse ears, adds a whimsical touch to the artwork.
“He actually drew it out on the panels one night,” said Mary, a community member who witnessed the creative process. “Then he came back the next day and sprayed the entire mural live during the Flaming Foliage Festival.” ARCY, who travels with all his painting supplies in his vehicle, kept to himself as he worked. “We all checked in on him to see if he needed anything,” Mary added. “But he just smiled and said, ‘No thanks, I have everything I need right here.’”
The mural’s central figure, a majestic blue heron, was chosen with deep intention. “We chose the heron for the project because the heron represents self-determination, stability, and peace,” said Laura Murnyack, CEO of Bucktail Medical Center. “That’s something that we, not just as a hospital, but as a community, stand strong for.”
Once completed, the panels were installed by Renovo Borough on the exterior of the Annex Building. Just before the mural’s official unveiling, Kira carefully framed the artwork and placed a weather protector over it, ensuring its preservation for years to come.
A special highlight of the mural is the vibrant underwater scene painted directly onto the brickwork, a section imagined and brought to life entirely by the talented student artists of the Bucktail Art Club. With guidance and encouragement from their art teacher, Katelyn Herron, the students dedicated countless hours over several weeks to design, sketch, and paint the aquatic portion of the mural, layering color, movement, and detail that beautifully complements the heron above. Their work showcases not only their technical skills but also a deep pride in their community and young artistry.
The student artists who contributed to this effort include: Khloe Austin, McKenna Bissman, Jason Buck, Elizabeth Button, Lyle Curles, Teal Hritzko, Willow Kitchen, Jaelyn Patton, Douglas Pitt, Max Poletto, Emily Russell, Harlow Sampson, and Kaidence Tennis. Their creativity and teamwork added a dynamic and meaningful dimension to the mural, making it a true community masterpiece.
The ceremony was hosted by the Clinton County Economic Partnership and drew an enthusiastic crowd that included Commissioner Angela Harding, Commissioner James Russo, Renovo Mayor Gene Bruno, Borough Council President Ann Tarantella, and Council Member David Knauff. Members of the Greater Renovo Heritage Park and staffing from Bucktail Medical Center also attended, along with Keystone Central School District officials, including Principal Jim Poletto and Superintendent Dr. Frank Redmon.
The program began with a heartfelt speech from Mary George Rhone of the Greater Renovo Heritage Park, who opened the ceremony by thanking everyone who made the mural possible, from volunteers and local leaders to students and supporters. Her message set a tone of gratitude and unity that resonated throughout the unveiling.
Next, Kira Rosamilia, Tourism Director of the Clinton County Economic Partnership, stepped up to share her appreciation for the strong community effort behind the project. She praised Renovo’s commitment to public art and proudly pointed out that the Renovo area now has more murals than any other community in Clinton County. Rosamilia also highlighted the Economic Partnership’s support for creative projects like this one, expressing her genuine excitement for future collaborations with the Renovo area. “It’s been a joy to work with this community,” she said.
Closing the series of remarks, Laura Murnyack spoke on behalf of Bucktail Medical Center, emphasizing the hospital’s pride in hosting the mural and their deep appreciation for everyone involved. She reiterated the significance of the heron as a symbol of peace, resilience, and self-determination, qualities that reflect not only the hospital’s mission but the character of the Renovo community as a whole.
Adding a musical touch to the event, the Bucktail Brass Ensemble, directed by student conductor and junior Kedda Bissman, performed a Trio of Dances: Rande (folk variation), Saltarelle (Renaissance-era piece), and Minuet(Classical era).All three selections representing the cultural and musical styles of their time and region. Earlier that morning, the ensemble had also performed at Avenue 209 Coffee Shop in Lock Haven, offering a morning concert with selections including Pavane, Hush, and Fall of Troy. Several of these musicians also being members of the Bucktail Art Club once again proving their dedication to the arts.
Throughout the event, Kira Rosamilia emphasized that community spirit was central to the mural’s creation. Local businesses such as Tony’s Hardware, who provided much assistance with the panels and frame work and dedicated volunteers like Vince Tarantella played key roles in bringing the project to life. “Vince showed up every single time work needed to be done on the frame,” Rosamilia said. “He’s been a rock.”
She also expressed appreciation for the support from Renovo Borough and local residents. “Members of the borough and the neighbors were so kind and accommodating,” she noted. “A huge thanks goes out to them.”
“The whole community played a part,” added Mary George Rhone. “Everyone who participated in this project was important.”
Visitors are encouraged to take a closer look, hidden within the mural’s design is a subtle nod to pop culture: a pair of Mickey Mouse ears tucked quietly among the details. Spotting them offers a playful reminder of the imagination, joy, and community effort that brought the mural to life. Meanwhile, planning for Renovo’s next mural project is already underway, with more details expected to be announced soon.
