When local artist Robert Lundquist was chosen to paint a new mural on the maintenance building at the Courtenay Civic Cemetery, he was asked to make the design blend in with its surroundings. Lundquist took this request to heart, and the resulting creation looks as though the viewer could step right in. 

John Ward, the City’s director of legislative services, said the mural has surpassed expectations. “We’re absolutely thrilled with the result,” said Ward. “It has transformed this building; it’s a beautiful addition to our cemetery.”

The work portrays a landscape of meandering pathways winding through trees, greenery and benches. The inspiration for the murals came from the central scattering garden and the overall landscape. To plan the artwork, Lundquist spent several hours in the garden, taking photos and letting the surroundings dictate the design. The mural was completed in September.

Lundquist said he enjoyed working on the project, and received many positive comments from passers-by. “As I was progressing on the walls, people would come by with comments on how comforted it made them feel,” noted Lundquist. “They wanted to take a seat on one of the granite benches or walk right into the scene.

“Many people said that it made the building virtually disappear. It was very encouraging to hear this as that is exactly what the City and I hoped to achieve.”

The Courtenay Civic Cemetery is open to the public seven days a week from 8:00 am until dusk. For more information, visit www.courtenay.ca