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July 15, 2025

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Arts Arts Arts Top Story

An Art Alley Coming to Downtown

October 9, 2013 by Daniel Menefee

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The DCA and River Arts say the alley that connects Cannon and High Street could be a window into Chestertown’s past.

alleyThey have a plan to have murals painted on all the windows and doors that have been covered over with stucco for many years. The murals would give passersby a life-like view from the alley into the living rooms and shops of Chestertown many generations ago.

The artists would use a technique known as tromp l’oeil, which means to deceive the eye. The technique creates an optical illusion in three dimensions.

“This artistry will allow those passing through the walkway to seemingly peek through windows into the past,” said Nancy Butler, who heads the Curb Appeal Program for DCA. “We believe this a perfect way to convert an unattractive alleyway into a delightful walkway.”

The technique is called tromp l’oeil, which means to deceive the eye. The technique creates an optical illusion in three dimensions.

Once the paintings are complete, window glass will be installed over the murals to enhance the scene. mural 2

Butler said the owners of the buildings and the Chestertown Historical District Commission have approved the idea — and artists have agreed to donate their time.

Butler has requested that the town power wash the stucco surfaces, remove some graffiti, and install some lighting for safety purposes.

Town Manager Bill Ingersoll agreed to Butler’s requests.

mural 1

 

The Spy Newspapers may periodically employ the assistance of artificial intelligence (AI) to enhance the clarity and accuracy of our content.

Filed Under: Arts, Arts Top Story

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Letters to Editor

  1. Nancy Butler says

    October 9, 2013 at 5:14 PM

    Editor,

    The Downtown Chestertown Association and RiverArts are very enthusiastic about the ‘Alley’ project – and thank you for the article presenting this to the community. However, I must clarify one point. Window glass will NOT be installed over the artwork. The window frames and window panes will be created ARTISTICALLY as seen in the concept pictures. We hope that everyone will enjoy watching the progress as this new ‘Art Walkway’ comes to fruition!

  2. Barbara Esmonde says

    October 9, 2013 at 10:35 PM

    Editor,
    Bravo Nancy! As a neighbor of the alley, it will make a colorful and much needed gateway to High Street!

  3. Laura Wade says

    December 8, 2013 at 2:35 PM

    Great idea. Thanks to DCA and River Arts for their wonderful beautification project. I would love to have National Music Festival musicians perform there among the murals next June.

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