Paint CHQ Artist Talk in Dunkirk

The Chautauqua County Partnership for Economic Growth (CCPEG) is pleased to announce the commencement of a new public art mural at 125 Central Ave. in Dunkirk, as part of the Paint CHQ program that launched in 2025.

After several delays prevented the originally selected artist from creating the mural in the fall of 2025, organizers have now moved forward with a new artist and design. Mural artist ARCY, based out of Connecticut, has been tapped to paint the large-scale installation, which will bring color, creativity, and a renewed sense of place to one of Dunkirk's key downtown corridors. The latest Paint CHQ project in Dunkirk continues the effort to enhance communities across Chautauqua County through transformative public art by celebrating local identity, inspiring community pride, and contributing to the ongoing revitalization of the county’s cities, villages, and business districts.

With work on the new mural now underway, community members and visitors are encouraged to stop by the site during the painting process to witness the artwork take shape and learn more about the impact public art can have on community development and economic vitality.

As part of the project, the public is also invited to attend a free Artist Talk on Tuesday, June 30, where ARCY will share insights into the mural's design, creative inspiration, and artistic process. The event will offer attendees a unique opportunity to engage directly with the artist and gain a deeper understanding of the story behind the work. The Artist Talk will begin at 5:30 p.m. and will take place at the SUNY Fredonia Center for Innovation & Economic Development (CIED), 214 Central Ave., Dunkirk.

The project will conclude with a Mural Dedication Ceremony on Thursday, July 2 at 5:30 p.m., celebrating the completed artwork and recognizing the partnerships that made the project possible. Residents, business owners, community leaders, and visitors are encouraged to attend.

"Paint CHQ continues to demonstrate how public art can serve as a catalyst for community engagement, placemaking, and economic development," said Rebecca Wurster, Planning Coordinator for the Chautauqua County Department of Planning and Development and CCPEG. "We are excited to bring another impactful mural project to Chautauqua County and look forward to celebrating its long-awaited completion with the Dunkirk community."

Paint CHQ is an initiative of the Chautauqua County Partnership for Economic Growth and the Chautauqua County Department of Planning and Development that supports the creation of high-quality public art throughout Chautauqua County. By transforming public spaces into vibrant community assets, the program helps strengthen local identity, encourage tourism, and enhance quality of life for residents and visitors alike.

For more information on Paint CHQ, visit ChooseCHQ.com/PaintCHQ.