NEWTOWN — A new piece of public art celebrating one of Newtown’s most significant moments in history was officially dedicated Aug. 29, bringing together community members, local leaders and supporters to celebrate the completion of a large-scale mural on a grain bin at Newtown Farm Service.
The mural was created by nationally recognized artist Evan Lovett as part of Wabash Walls, The Arts Federation’s regional public art program. The project was made possible through generous support from the Western Indiana Community Foundation, Indiana Arts Commission, Duke Energy, and the Fruits Family.
The mural pays tribute to Newtown’s agricultural heritage and the 1935 National Cornhusking Contest, which brought an estimated 110,000 people to the community and placed the small Fountain County town in the national spotlight.
At the center of Lovett’s design is a dramatic field of mature corn stretching toward the horizon beneath a glowing Indiana sunset. The imagery captures both the hard work of generations of farmers and the importance of agriculture to Newtown’s identity.
The year “1935” is prominently incorporated into the mural, serving as a visual reminder of the historic National Cornhusking Contest. The ornate framing around the scene gives the massive grain bin the appearance of a historic portrait or commemorative monument, transforming an everyday agricultural structure into a celebration of local history. The mural recognizes Lawrence “Slim” Pitzer (Fountain County Native) for winning the competition in 1939.
The mural provides a connection between Newtown’s past and present. While the artwork depicts farming practices from nearly a century ago, its placement on a working agricultural facility reinforces the continuing importance of farming to the community.
“Public art is at its most powerful when it tells a story that belongs to the community,” said Tetia Lee, TAF CEO. “This mural does exactly that. It honors Newtown’s agricultural roots, celebrates an extraordinary moment in the town’s history, and gives residents and visitors something beautiful to experience for generations to come.”
