Night View of Liberty Street Looking East [circa 1940]
UNVEILED June 25, 2020
SPONSORS Ihor & Marilou Suszko
SITE 5590 Liberty Avenue, Papa Joe’s Pizza, west wall
ARTISTS Mike Sekletar
This charming postcard evokes the mood and memories of a relaxing stroll on a quiet summer evening in Vermilion. The location of the postcard mural enables viewers to experience a “Then and Now” view of the intersection of Liberty and Main (Rt. 60) in the heart of downtown Vermilion. Take time to notice what’s changed over the years as well as the architectural details preserved. Compare the modes of transportation, street and business signage, lighting, and even the pavement – all so different from what we take for granted day to day.
Postcard co-sponsor Marilou Suszko commented, “The image is a perfect blend of what was and what still is. While the uses of the buildings have changed over time, some are still the same as what we see in the postcard image. The bottom line: it feels inviting, like somewhere you want to go on a warm summer night. “
Taking a few minutes to explore one image alongside current reality can provide an opportunity to explore the past and identify those aspects of our history that have permanence and value.
Suszko added, “We hope that the Public Art Vermilion Postcard Project resonates with those who remember a Vermilion of 50 years ago and sparks interest in a younger viewers that have never experienced Vermilion like this.”
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Public Art Vermilion Postcard Project