UTICA — A mural that changes with the “Seasons” was unveiled on the sidewall of a building in the Roscoe Conking Park near the Parkway Recreation Center on Monday.

The mural — funded by The Gabriel, Joseph & Lila Mandour Karam Fund, and local artist Patrick Fiore, who also designed and painted the mural — aims to add an artistic creation to a family-friendly multicultural area.

This location was selected due to the diversity of individuals and families that it brings together who come to enjoy the variety of health-focused activities available in the park.

“The Gabriel, Joseph & Lila Mandour Karam Fund was established to honor Joseph G. Karam to continue his passion for the arts and his community through a creative landscape with grants and projects that focus on arts and technology,” said Lindsey Mandia, Karam Fund board member.

“Unveiling this mural today is extra special, as it would have Joseph’s birthday. We are happy to honor this day with this gift to his community,” Mandia said.

Representatives from The Gabriel, Joseph & Lila Mandour Karam Fund approached United Way of the Mohawk Valley to partner on the project due to the organization’s past success in bringing several murals to the community since 2016.

United Way MV assisted in coordinating logistics and securing in-kind donations to make the mural possible.

“We hope that this mural will contribute, enliven, and encourage community members to take advantage of the assets at this park,” said Erin Gutierrez Matt, United Way MV CEO. “This space is a unique and valued oasis for activity in Utica, for people of all ages to focus on a healthy lifestyle by skating, skiing, sledding, playing tennis, on the playground, or inside our partner, 50 Forwards Mohawk Valley, Parkway Center’s facility.”

The mural is a contemporary design that encourages people to appreciate the natural environment and four seasons of the Mohawk Valley. The palette of colors used for the mural reflects the colors in nature, and as the seasons change, the mural’s emphasis changes – bringing more meaning to the concept.

“After being approached by the The Gabriel, Joseph & Lila Mandour Karam Fund to create a mural, I searched for a site that would be accessible to the public,” Fiore said. “I have fond memories as a child, some 50 years ago, taking part in activities throughout all four seasons at this location. My goal was to creatively amplify the value of art at outdoor public spaces, the wonder and richness of our seasons, and the positive effect nature, creativity, and physical activity have on our well-being as individuals and a community.”

The city of Utica collaborated on the project by repairing the wall and area to ensure the mural would last for years to come.

“Roscoe Conkling Park is a treasure at the center of the city of Utica and we continue to work with our partners to make it the best it can be,” said Mayor Robert Palmieri. “Over the course of the next year, we will see historic investments in making Roscoe Conkling Park a true showcase destination for our residents. The artwork that Mr. Fiore, United Way MV, and The Gabriel, Joseph & Lila Mandour Karam Fund created will stand at the center of a very exciting rebirth of this historic park area.”