The dramatic burst of birds pouring out of the grand piano on Aspen Ave has by now caught the attention of most Flagstaff residents. However, the mural on the side of the Orpheum Theater titled “Sound of Flight,” is only half complete. In order to fund the final phase of the project, the muralists invite the community to a benefit event at the Orpheum on Friday June 19^th. Flagstaff’s own Brothers Gow will headline the event. Doors open at 7pm for an evening of food, raffle prizes, music by all-girl ensemble, Heartwood, and a special appearance by Sambatuque Drum Ensemble.

 Last year, the artists spent six months painting the first half of the enormous 4500 square foot wall of the historic Orpheum Theater. Sky Black, visionary for the project designed the piece. He recruited veteran muralists, R.E. Wall and Margaret Dewar, known as the Mural Mice, to bring his idea to light. 

The mural benefit is the final push to launch the second season of painting. “So far the community has been extremely generous toward the effort,” said Sky Black. Funding for the mural has come from over 60 local businesses, grants, and from hundreds of individuals in the community.  “Public art belongs to everyone, the ‘Sound of Flight’ mural will be a Flagstaff landmark and point of pride for years to come,” explained R.E. Wall.

 The image for the second half of the mural can be viewed online at SoundofFlight.net. The artists have an ongoing crowdfunding campaign at the website as well with perks available to everyone who donates to the project. Tickets are available at  SoundofFlight.net.