MURALS: IN THE BEHOLDER'S EYE

Among the attractions of Cape Girardeau for residents and visitors alike are the many murals on buildings around town. The Missouri Heritage Mural Association shepherds these artistic projects and, for the most part, has received high marks for the effort.

The association's most ambitious project has been the new Missouri Wall of Fame on the downtown side of the floodwall along the Mississippi River. The Wall of Fame shows dozens of Missourians who have achieved fame and glory. In its own right, the wall has achieved some notoriety of its own, thanks to the pastel color scheme chosen for the project.

Association members are painfully aware of the criticism, and they have taken one step in response. Some additional color is being added to the Wall of Fame mural in hopes that it will be more vibrant and appealing.

As with any art, what someone likes is in the eye of the beholder. There are, for instance, some supporters of the original color scheme who like the pastels because they are different and, therefore, striking in their own way. Soon the critics will begin passing judgment on the recent changes. It can be hoped they will expend as much energy expressing constructive ideas as they have on displaying their dislike for the Wall of Fame.