I've painted large surfaces, but this was my first mural.   Feeling a bit like a babe in the woods, I asked Hans Gabali, a well known muralist for help.  I'm grateful for his instruction.  Along with many tips, he said that it helps to be physically strong and, definitely, to use big brushes - sometimes the obvious is the best advice . 

The only photo we had for reference was "Engine #39's Last Run Out Of Manorville Station." But we found out that the actual engine is presently undergoing renovations!  We took photos and then Bob and Martie got a bumper sticker with a drawing of Engine #39 on it.  Of course, the bumper sticker  was also headed the wrong way, but computer technology fixed that:

Some resources, the first step, but, still, such a huge blank canvas!

Click photo for a Slide Show of the mural's progress

Late October 2004. The first day, I stared at the blank wall for an hour.  Finally, after a prayer, I began the drawing, which took three weeks to complete.  It was unseasonably cold - I worked weather permitting.  I also discovered that I had Lyme disease (again) but that's another story.  By mid November, it became apparent that this would be a long project.  Before the winter,  a second coat needed to be painted to protect the prime coat and it had to be done in a way to preserve the drawing.

During the winter, Bob mentioned that there is a fully restored G-5 Engine in the Railroad Museum in Strasburg, Pa.  In May, 2005, Bill and I went there and took pictures.  Having excellent resources one can paint the realistic details.  This project's a great challenge and  also has a lot of meaning.  Manorville is my hometown, and for a while, The Maples was even owned by my aunt's family.  My Mom met my stepfather there and they've been married for 24 years.  There is a rumor that Mom even danced on the tables back in the 1950's.  It's also nice to be working on a mural for an old school chum.  Bob and Martie have given me carte blanche.  Bob says, "It's your canvas."  Of course, he sometimes questions a crooked line or a misplaced tie rod and it's good to have an artistic director, another eye.  He's gotten so used to me working on the mural that he simply nods "Hello" while he continues with his work.  Martie is usually busy inside, but I see her when Bill and I stop in for their great steak tidbits and beer.

So, that's the story for now.

Click photo above for a Slide Show of the mural's progress!

hansgabali.org/MURALS/