We're so incredibly blessed to have one of the best children's hospitals in the state right here in Temple.

We can appreciate it as adults, but for a child who's about to be admitted for care, it can seem like a scary place.

That's where the power of art comes in.

Local Artists Needed

The City of Temple and McLane Children's Medical Center are looking for local artists to help them complete a mural that will lift the spirits of and bring comfort to visitors and patients of the hospital.

Where Will the Mural Be?

The train-themed mural will be part of a concrete wall that will run along the main thoroughfare to the hospital. It'll be the first thing children see on their way to receive care, which will serve a very important purpose.

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Distraction Is Part of the Treatment

Organizers of the project say distraction is one of the best ways to help children cope with undergoing medical care.

I think back to when I was a kid, and my doctor or a nurse would find ways to keep me distracted and help take my mind off the shot I was receiving or the procedure I needed to undergo. It really did help. Even today, I find ways to distract myself and try to take my mind off the situation when needles are involved.

“Distraction is one of the best ways to help a child cope with necessary medical care,” said Nancy Glover, City of Temple Director of Housing and Community Development. “The Market Loop Mural will play a key role in providing much-needed distraction for children on their way to the hospital for treatment.”

The mural will be the first step in that process, making the hospital seem less intimidating and feel more welcoming to frightened children in a stressful situation.

How Can I Get Involved?

If you're an artist interested in helping out, you can download a design template here, then email your proposed contribution to nglover@templetx.gov or mail it to 101 North Main Street, Temple, TX 76501.

Submissions must be received by Tuesday, August 31, so don't sleep on it.

Organizers will announce the top submissions on Tuesday, September 7.

Use Your Art for Good

Having their work seen and knowing that it's touching the lives of people in their community is the dream of every artist. This is your chance to do just that, and you'll be bringing comfort to children most in need.

I can't wait to see how the mural turns out, and hopefully it'll be your art I see there!

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