Shelly Metzger Shelly Metzger

Flexibility in Mural Design Matters

As a mural artist, I approach each project like a custom puzzle—designed specifically for the people and places it’s meant to serve….

As a mural artist, I approach each project like a custom puzzle—designed specifically for the people and places it’s meant to serve. While some artists have a signature style, my work is intentionally eclectic. I don’t stick to one look because no two clients, walls, or communities are the same. That flexibility is a huge win for anyone looking for something truly unique.

Mural mockup of a historically inspired Flying Tiger. Shelly Metzger King County Mural Artist

That said, there are themes I’m often drawn to: historical storytelling, vintage aesthetics, and a touch of whimsy. One recent source of inspiration was the Flying Tigers—a group of volunteer American pilots who flew alongside the Chinese Air Force in World War II. They’re known for their shark-nosed P-40 planes and daring missions, and their legacy is one of courage, cooperation, and grit.

That inspiration led to two very different mural mockups—both centered around my winged tiger illustration. The first version pays direct tribute to the Flying Tigers, set against a backdrop of lightning and fighter plane silhouettes. It’s bold and rooted in history.

The second mockup takes a more whimsical path: an orange housecat dreams of becoming a flying tiger, soaring through the night sky. I paired it with the phrase Dream Boldly—a lighthearted take on the same core idea: aspiration, transformation, and daring to believe in more than what seems possible. Because often, we dream boldly not out of dissatisfaction, but out of a deep desire to grow, to stretch our wings, and to see what we're truly capable of.

Two stories. One tiger. A reminder that murals can meet us where we are—whether that’s grounded in heritage or lifted by imagination.

If you’re looking for a mural that reflects your story, your values, and your space, I’d love to create something custom for you. Reach out, and let’s start a conversation.

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Shelly Metzger Shelly Metzger

The Hidden Safety Benefits of Murals

Beyond adding beauty, murals can add to the safety of their community.

Bloomberg Philanthropies published a study prepared by Sam Schwartz, an American transportation engineer, and former New York City Traffic Commissioner, revealing, "...parts of cities with murals saw
🦺🎨 a 50% drop in crashes involving pedestrians or cyclists,
🦺🎨 a nearly 40% drop in crashes leading to injuries and
🦺🎨 a nearly 30% increase in the rate of drivers yielding to pedestrians."

My brother was hospitalized as a child due a reckless driver speeding. I can still remember the doctor telling us they weren't sure if he would survive. (Thankfully, he did!) Therefore, art that can benefit not only the beauty of a community, but also increase the safety of those living in it, is immensely dear to me!

The city of Bellevue, WA is actively working toward commissioning artists to design public art for their cross walks so that they can conduct their own studies on the impact of art and community safety. Phenomenal. This is the kind of proactive government paired with the arts that I AM HERE FOR! LET'S GO!

If your community wants to increase public safety, consider installing a mural. If you need a muralist, consider hiring me.

Beyond adding beauty, murals can add to the safety of their community.

Bloomberg Philanthropies published a study prepared by Sam Schwartz, an American transportation engineer, and former New York City Traffic Commissioner, revealing, "...parts of cities with murals saw
🦺🎨 a 50% drop in crashes involving pedestrians or cyclists,
🦺🎨 a nearly 40% drop in crashes leading to injuries and
🦺🎨 a nearly 30% increase in the rate of drivers yielding to pedestrians."

My brother was hospitalized as a child due a reckless driver speeding. I can still remember the doctor telling us they weren't sure if he would survive. (Thankfully, he did!) Therefore, art that can benefit not only the beauty of a community, but also increase the safety of those living in it, is immensely dear to me!

The city of Bellevue, WA is actively working toward commissioning artists to design public art for their cross walks so that they can conduct their own studies on the impact of art and community safety. Phenomenal. This is the kind of proactive government paired with the arts that I AM HERE FOR! LET'S GO!

If your community wants to increase public safety, consider installing a mural. If you need a muralist, consider hiring me.

Read More