Paint CHQ Mural in Bemus Point

The Chautauqua County Partnership for Economic Growth (CCPEG) and the Chautauqua County Department of Planning and Development (CCDPD) are excited to announce the start of a new public art mural at Bemus Point Village Hall, 13 Alburtus Ave., Bemus Point, NY 14712. Chicago-based artist Michael Ferrarell, of Anytown Mural & Sign Co., will begin work at the mural site on Thursday, September 24, as part of the 2026 Paint CHQ mural program, an initiative dedicated to enhancing communities across Chautauqua County through transformative public art.

Ferrarell’s large-scale installation will bring color, creativity, history, landmarks, and local claims to fame to Bemus Point Village Hall. The project reflects Paint CHQ's mission to celebrate local identity, inspire community pride, and contribute to the ongoing revitalization of Chautauqua County's cities, villages, and business districts.

Community members and visitors are encouraged to stop by the site during the painting process to watch 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 invited to attend an artist talk on Tuesday, September 29, at 6 p.m. at The Landing at Bemus Point, 59 Lakeside Dr. Ferrarell 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 project will conclude with a mural dedication event on Saturday, October 3, at 4 p.m. at the mural site, celebrating the completed artwork and recognizing the partnerships that made the project possible. Residents, business owners, community leaders, and visitors are encouraged to attend, take photos, and celebrate the new addition to the community.

"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 CCDPD and CCPEG. "We are excited to bring our fifth mural to Chautauqua County through the Paint CHQ program. We hope the mural at Village Hall brings additional foot traffic to Main Street and Alburtus Avenue, creates a unique experience in the Village’s public realm, and generates additional patronage for local businesses. I believe this mural will be another wonderful addition to Bemus Point’s quality of life, generate excitement among local residents, and continue to enhance community pride."

Paint CHQ is an initiative of CCPEG and CCDPD 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.

About CCPEG - The Chautauqua County Partnership for Economic Growth (CCPEG) serves as the main convener of economic development partners and resources to advance key projects that achieve economic prosperity in Chautauqua County. It also serves as the catalyst and broker of resources for advancing economic prosperity efforts and is the central coordinating entity for improving the quality of life in our communities, thereby attracting people and businesses to Chautauqua County to live, work, recreate, and invest. It is an initiative of the Chautauqua Region Economic Development Corporation (CREDC).