A River’s Memory

In a recent Ottawalls interview, artists Martin and Stephanie shared the background behind their mural, A River’s Memory. Guided by a theme centered on local history, the duo drew inspiration from Hull’s connection to its rivers and log workers. The final piece blends underwater elements, native wildlife, and a street art style. It features several specific local references: a frog rock band named Chico (after the building owner's dog) paying homage to Hull's nightlife, sailor tattoos on the animals honoring historic river workers, and a fish designed as a tribute to photographer David Pistol, who documented their process.

The creation of the mural was a direct, collaborative effort between both artists. Stephanie established the initial color palette, while Martin led the sketching process. Once at the wall, they built the characters together through trial and error, adding spray paint touches to every animal. The composition evolved as they worked, leading to spontaneous additions like a fish holding a Pepsi can and a raccoon carrying a snail. While they rarely name their murals, Martin and Stephanie chose A River's Memory to meet community expectations and ground the piece in its surrounding history.