LOGAN – The public is invited to attend a social celebrating the new wildlife mural at Merlin Olsen Park painted by artist Chris Peterson.
That event – sponsored by Logan City and its mural partners — is set for 5:30 to 6:30 p.m. on Wednesday, Oct. 30 at Merlin Olsen Park.
A Utah native, Peterson grew up in the foothills of Mount Timpanogos along the Wasatch Front.
In his twenties, Peterson studied painting at Brigham Young University and the Kansas City Art Institute before moving to New York City.
After trips to the wild corners of the American West, Peterson changed course from art-making to pursue graduate studies in conservation, education and community-building. He now holds master’s degrees in Non-Profit Management & Environmental Policy and Environmental Humanities from the University of Utah.
Peterson began moonlighting on murals in 2009 as part of a youth-centered visioning project.
Since 2022, he has been involved with the Utah Wildlife Federation in launching a statewide arts, science and engagement campaign by painting murals to celebrate wildlife in every county of the state.
Logan’s mural partners in supporting Peterson’s artwork include the Utah Wildlife Federation, Utah Wildlife Walls, Utah Cutthroat Slam, the Western Native Trout Initiative, the Bridgerland Audubon Society and Cache Anglers.
The social on Wednesday evening will be held at the 200 East pedestrian tunnel in Merlin Olsen Park. Hot chocolate and donuts will be served.
Merlin Olsen Park is located at 280 East Center Street in Logan.