It’s the cherry on top, Sturgeon Bay! If you’ve driven down 4th Avenue recently, you’ve likely seen the huge transformation on the Southeast wall of Cherry Lanes Arcade Bar. We are thrilled to announce that our once-blank and cracked exterior wall has become a eye-catching cherry mural.

It’s More Than Just Art

We painted a vibrant celebration of everything we love about our spot and Door County. The design features over three dozen giant cherries — some are 6 feet tall — that serve as a playful nod to our name and, of course, a tribute to the region’s rich agricultural history.

The aesthetic serves a dual purpose.

“The cherry design is meant to be a fun, bold and engaging landmark for 4th Avenue. It helps capture the vibrancy of the bar downstairs while the wallpaper-like pattern also supports the aesthetic for the Lofts at Cherry Lanes affordable housing project currently under construction on the second floor,” says Moira Callan, owner of Cherry Lanes Arcade Bar and Lofts at Cherry Lanes.

A Community Collaboration

We believe in supporting local artists. The mural is a collaboration with the talented local artist Marie Kimball, who lead the painting, with assistance from local artist Lauren Thistle. They turned our vision into a stunning piece of public art.

The project also received incredible support from the community, including partial funding from the Door County Economic Development Small Business Facade and Property Improvement grant. We are truly grateful for this shared dream coming to life.

“The mural was always a part of the plan! I envisioned it the moment I bought this building in the spring of 2024. Now, seeing that vision become a big, bright, beautiful reality is incredible. It’s been pure, joyful magic! And to bring it to life with such resounding support and wonderful talented artists is the ‘cherry on top!’” -Moira Callan.

The Power of Public Art

Artist Marie Kimball is passionate about how public art affects a community, especially in a region that sees long, gray winters.

“Not only do murals encourage foot traffic in the downtown area, benefiting numerous businesses,” says Kimball, “but the addition of vibrant colors to the landscape can also help elevate a person’s mood and mitigate the symptoms of Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD). Adding more color (and a dash of whimsical fun) for year-round residents to experience is a simple way to improve mental health for the community at large.”

If you’re inspired to see more public art in Door County, Marie is excited to bring more public art to our community. You can connect with her at MarieKimballCreative.com to submit a blank wall or project idea.

We hope this mural becomes your new favorite spot for a photo op! Be sure to grab a few pictures of you and your friends with the giant cherries before or after you hit the bowling lanes or dominate the arcade games.

Check out our Let’s Go Door County episode: https://www.facebook.com/share/v/14MaVx4JNZ2