Exciting Update: Clyde Tombaugh Mural in Streator to Receive Augmented Reality Experience

Streator, Illinois is set to unveil an exciting new addition to its public art scene with the update of the Clyde Tombaugh Mural at 215 E. Main St. The mural, originally created in 2018 during the Streator Walldogs Murals and Milestones event, is getting a high-tech makeover thanks to a collaboration between Streatscapes, BrandXR, and Electrifly.co.

The new augmented reality (AR) mural experience will bring the story of Clyde Tombaugh and his discovery of Pluto to life in an interactive and immersive way. By using Instagram on a smartphone or tablet, viewers will be able to see the mural come alive and engage with the artwork in a whole new way.

The official launch of the AR mural is scheduled for 6 p.m. on Friday, May 17, at the mural site on Main St. The experience will also be live during the annual Food Truck Festival event and fundraiser on Saturday, May 18, at Streator City Park. Festival attendees can follow the planetary pathway from City Park down Monroe Street to the Pluto Mural, where they can enjoy food trucks, an artisan market, games, and live performances.

Tara Bedei, Chairman of Streatscapes, expressed excitement about the project and the potential for future AR murals in Streator. The organization is planning to raise funds to continue expanding public art in the area.

To experience the AR mural, users can scan QR code signage and be directed to Instagram. By finding the mural in the viewfinder of their smartphone, they can watch as the artwork comes to life. Tapping on Pluto and the telescope will also reveal additional effects.

The integration of art and technology in the Clyde Tombaugh Mural update is a unique way to engage the community and showcase Streator’s history. Streatscapes and its partners are eager to see how the public will respond to this innovative blend of traditional mural painting and cutting-edge AR technology.

For those interested in sponsoring future AR mural experiences, Streatscapes is open to collaboration. BrandXR and Electrifly.co, the companies behind the AR technology, are based in southeast Michigan and were founded by three Arab-American brothers – Moody, Zach, and Malik Mattan.

Don’t miss the chance to be a part of this groundbreaking art experience in Streator and witness the intersection of art and technology in a whole new light.