Billings’ South Park Blessed by Our Lady of Guadalupe

Murals open a little art into the real world.  They bring a view of beauty and significance to an otherwise dreary urban landscape.

South Park in Billings has been graced with a new mural of Our Lady of Guadalupe, painted by a collaboration of artist Elyssa Leininger and the young members of the Raza Unida club in Billings schools.  The artwork was revealed at a special ceremony on the sunny Saturday, June 1st, with an official blessing from Father José Marquez of Mary Queen of Peace Parish.

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The mural is a loving embrace of the Billings area and Montana.  The state motto Oro y Plata (Gold and Silver) banners under seven pink flowers.  Flags from Central and South American countries frame the radiant Lady.  The bluish background included a church and an Old West train running towards a town, acknowledging the history of Billings the railroad center.  The upper corners feature a mountainside such as from the Beartooths and the Rimrocks, both views residents in Billings can see for real.  The mural even has a couple monarch butterflies in opposite corners.

Leininger and the Raza Unida youngsters created a comprehensive art piece with a religious inspiration at center stage and local flavor supporting her arrival.

Btw, Raza Unida is Spanish for United Race.

So if you drive by South Park, or bring the kids to play at South Park, please take a moment to see this mural up close and personal.  Will bring a little more sunshine to the day.