Nemacolin is made up of nearly 2,000 acres of pristine property with a
collections of unique buildings filled with eclectic art, dining and
activities, all situated on the lush rolling hills of the Laurel
Highlands. Everywhere guests look, there is something beautiful and
inspiring. But, there is one part of the property that left much of that
to be desired: The Chateau Associate Corridor.
A nearly
7,000 sq foot hallway, tucked away behind the scenes, this corridor is
located in the lower lever of the Chateau Lafayette and is used by
almost every Nemacolin associate at least twice a day as they come and
go to work. Void of windows to the outdoors, this enclosed corridor
houses associate lockers and back of the house offices.
DAY #1
Since the Chateau was built in 1997, long-time associate and current Director of Human Resources, Stephanie Miller, has imagined a mural in that space. Earlier this year, Daynelle Sanner, HR Training Manager, acknowledged the unknown artistic talents of some of Nemacolin’s staff and spoke to Marketing associate, Brenda Girod, to see if a mural team could be established through her personal arts organization. Shortly after, the Chateau Mural Project was announced!
The Chateau Mural Project is a partnership between
Nemacolin Woodlands Resort and Brenda’s nonprofit arts organization,
The Uniontown Arts Fellowship (UAF). Since June of this year, UAF has organized Fayette County artists and Nemacolin associates as mentors to community youth on public painting days. Also, community groups such as the East End United Community Center and the Uniontown Area High School Art Club have also participated in private painting days at Nemacolin.
DAY #2
DAY #3
DAY #4
DAY #6
DAY #7
After only 7 working days, nearly 73 participants have spent a total of 300 hours and 45 minutes transforming every inch of the corridor. At least once a month a team gathers in the corridor, using their talents and imaginations to bring the beautiful outdoors inside through a fun pop style. Using hard edges and solid colors, the mural is designed so that everyone can participate regardless of their skill level. “It’s like a giant coloring book,” shared Brenda, “UAF is about creating a fellowship through the arts that includes everyone and this mural certainly does that.” The design incorporates rolling hillsides, trees, oversized flowers and more. Each doorway, office, and elevator is clearly marked, as each has a whimsical cottage drawn around it making each part of the design. Directional signage is also added to help associates find their way through the long corridor. Once completed, inspirational quotations will be added to the design. Daynelle added, “Our goal is to enhance the appearance of the associate walkway by incorporating inspirational designs for all associates to enjoy.”
The Chateau Mural Project is made possible by Nemacolin Woodlands Resort, who’s generous donation of supplies, lunches and transportation for community participants, allows UAF to offer this mural opportunity to the public at no charge. UAF is planning a ribbon cutting to celebrate the accomplishments of all those involved, once the mural is completed.
The Chateau Mural Project will continue this Fall. UAF will announce at least one public painting day per month on their Facebook page: “
The Phoenix Arts Center.” All are welcome to participate. Groups are also welcome to schedule private group painting days. Anyone interested in participating should contact Brenda Girod at
brenda.girod@nemacolin.com or call
724.329.6481.
