Golden Spinners, 2019
Latex and Enamel
Dimensions variable

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Pawtucket – A dynamic new mural has appeared in Pawtucket.  The large mural, Golden Spinners, 180 feet long and 25 feet high, is located on the back side of the Creative Commerce Center, at 881 Main Street.  The colorful mural is in full view at the exit ramp of Exit 26N off I-95.

The Creative Commerce Center, currently being developed by Wayne Rosenberg, was formerly occupied by the New England Lace Company and Tecumseh, an industrial machinery company. David Teng Olsen, the artist, explains, “I took forms from both industries and created an image that evokes both of those histories in addition to the diverse local population of contemporary Pawtucket.”

Olsen brings to his art a background of scientific illustration in the bioengineering field. His work as an artist uses new and traditional visual methods to explore ideas of science and life. In addition to painting murals, Olsen also works with printmaking, animation, interactive digital media and performance art in the creation of site-specific installations.  He is on the faculty of Wellesley College where he teaches New Media.

In preparation for the mural in Pawtucket, Olsen spent a year researching, designing, and fund raising. Then with the help of five assistants, he recently painted the mural in twelve days. It is the largest mural Olsen has painted to date.

Joan Hausrath, Chair of the Pawtucket Public Art Committee, says, “I am delighted to see this wonderful new mural in Pawtucket.  Public art humanizes our urban environments by interrupting our daily routine with intriguing and pleasurable experiences.”