A “Welcome” Renewed: Hastings’ Iconic Mural Reborn After 26 Years
A Beloved Landmark Gets a New Life
For 26 years, an eye-catching mural on the side of a downtown Hastings building has greeted everyone crossing the bridge into town. That familiar “Hastings on the Mississippi” mural became a proud local landmark – but even the brightest paint eventually fades. Now, in the summer of 2025, Hastings’ iconic welcome is being reborn with fresh art and energy. And who better to reflect on this change than the original muralist himself, David Youngren, who painted the very first mural on that wall back in 1998.
Original mural artists, David Youngren (left), Tim Blough (right), proudly stand in front of their beautifully completed mural, showcasing their remarkable artistic talents and the successful collaborative effort that brought this inspiring piece to life. Submitted image by David Youngren.
David Youngren, a lifelong Hastings resident, never expected his 1998 mural to become a piece of local history. “We never dreamed it would last 26 years,” David recalls with a smile. At the time, he and his friend Tim Blough – both art-school buddies – had never painted a mural before. The opportunity came about almost by accident. “We were just at a community event raising money,” David says, “and then we found out later on that it was gonna be a mural.” The project wasn’t even planned as a mural at first, but once funding was in place, David and Tim leapt at the chance. They sketched out an idea for a large welcome mural and pitched it to the building’s owners at the time, John and Wendy Dodge, a sibling duo. The Dodges loved the concept and gave the green light. Suddenly, David and Tim found themselves standing before a 60-foot-tall, 120-foot-wide stucco wall with brushes in hand, wondering how to begin!
Painting the First Mural in 1998: Challenges and Triumphs
From day one, the original mural was an adventure. The wall – now the exterior of the Quarry Taphouse building on 2nd Street – hadn’t always been exposed. “At one time it was an inside wall,” David explains. Decades ago, another building stood snug against it. That building was knocked down during a bridge expansion project, turning the once interior wall into a rough, weathered outside wall. The surface was uneven stucco with bumps up to three-quarters of an inch – not exactly a painter’s dream canvas. David laughs remembering the challenge: “We weren’t just touching with a brush and smoothing it on. A lot of times we had to jab the paint into some of these corners and crannies!” But the duo was determined to make their vision come alive.
Lacking today’s high-tech tools, David and Tim went old-school to transfer their small design onto the massive wall. They drew a grid of one-foot squares across the entire 60×120 ft area. Armed with that guide, they painstakingly redrew the design square by square onto the stucco. It was labor-intensive work on ladders and scaffolding. “Neither one of us had ever done a mural,” David says, “we just kind of fell right into it.” Yet, with patience and hometown pride, they completed a vibrant welcome scene that resonated with the community.
When the mural was finished in 1998, David and Tim stepped back and admired their work – a warm welcome sign for Hastings that was finally a reality. Still, David admits, they had their anxieties: How long will it last out here? Will it get vandalized or painted over in a year? “We wondered if someone might decide to slap a hamburger ad on the side or something,” he jokes. But none of those fears came true. Instead, their mural proudly stood the test of time. Year after year, it greeted visitors coming over the bridge, becoming as much a part of Hastings’ identity as the bridge itself. “We were definitely blessed,” says David. “Tim and I were able to watch our mural get old and worn out – something not every artist gets to do.” In fact, the mural became a sentimental landmark for locals, a backdrop for countless photographs, and a symbol of the town’s welcoming spirit.
In this reminiscence, artist David Youngren explains how an impromptu fundraising idea in 1998 led him and friend Tim Blough to paint the RJ’s Tavern on Main’s inaugural mural.
Passing the Torch: A New Mural for a New Generation
After 26 years of sun, rain, and Minnesota winters, the original mural had naturally weathered. By 2024, its colors were fading and the wall showed its age. It was time for a refresh – a chance to reimagine the welcome message for Hastings while honoring the legacy of the original. The building (now home to The Quarry Taphouse & Rock Range, a popular restaurant) once again became a canvas for community art. But who would take on the huge task of repainting this 7,200-square-foot wall?
David Youngren considered throwing his hat in the ring for a brief moment – after all, how often does an artist get to repaint their own mural decades later? Ultimately, he decided to cheer from the sidelines. “Should I even think about doing this?” he asked himself, then quipped, “No, I’ve fallen off too many ladders!” David is happily passing the torch to the next generation. And as it turns out, that torch is in very good hands.
Hastings commissioned two talented young mural artists to design and paint the new mural. (When David heard there would be two artists, his curiosity was piqued: who were they?) “The first thing I did was look on the internet to see the type of murals they have done,” he says. What he discovered left him “so pleasantly pleased.” The pair’s portfolio of vibrant public art and community murals eased David’s mind immediately. Hastings’ beloved welcome mural was going to be reborn by artists who truly knew what they were doing – and who respected the importance of the project.
Watching the new painters at work has been a revelation for David, especially seeing how technology has advanced mural-making. One night, as the project began, Dave stopped by and witnessed a scene that amazed him: the artists were projecting their design onto the wall after dark, tracing the outlines with remarkable speed and accuracy. “It’s such a cool way they can do that now,” Dave says enthusiastically. In 1998, he and Tim spent days on ladders sketching grid lines in chalk; in 2025, the new team simply shines a giant digital projector at the stucco canvas and sketches the entire scene in a fraction of the time. Modern lifts and safety gear have also made the work easier and safer than the 90s-era ladders David remembers all too well!
Original mural artists David Youngren (left) and Tim Blough (right) are pictured together in this photograph from 1998. This submitted image was provided by David Youngren.
Fresh Paint, Familiar Warmth
As the new mural comes to life, longtime residents are already finding it both excitingly new yet comfortingly familiar. The design brings a fresh splash of color and detail – eagle silhouettes, Hastings’ historic landmarks, maybe even a nod to the nearby Mississippi and Vermillion Rivers – all rendered in vivid hues of modern mural paint. And speaking of paint, David notes another big improvement: today’s outdoor mural paints are far superior to what was available in the 90s. The new mural is being created with high-quality, weather-resistant pigments specifically made for longevity on exterior walls. “The paint is now way better than what we had for the mural,” David says. Between the updated wall prep and these durable paints, he believes “this painting could still be here in 50 years.” In other words, Hastings might enjoy this welcome mural for decades to come, just as it did the last one – perhaps even longer.
David finds poetic symmetry in this moment. In 1998 he was the young artist putting a mark on his hometown; in 2025, he’s the seasoned mentor-figure watching younger artists add their chapter to Hastings’ story. “I’m glad they’re so young,” he says of the new muralists with a chuckle. If all goes well, those artists might live to see yet another mural update 30 or 50 years from now – just as David is witnessing his own work be renewed by others. It’s the cycle of public art: each generation leaves something bright and inspiring for the next.
And make no mistake, this mural is inspiring a lot of people already. Even halfway finished, the artwork is turning heads. Drive over the bridge into downtown and you can’t miss it – bold colors and local imagery now dominate a wall that, until recently, was peeling and faded. The transformation is capturing the imagination of Hastings residents. People walking by pause to watch the painters up on the lift carefully filling in details. Families are snapping selfies with the evolving mural in the background. It’s not just a painting; it’s an event in town!
The original 1998 “Hastings on the Mississippi” mural is a treasured and iconic piece of public art that beautifully captured the unique spirit and rich history of Hastings along the mighty Mississippi River. This mural has long served as a visual celebration of the city’s heritage and natural beauty. Submitted image by David Youngren.
Community Pride and Excitement
Hastings has truly rallied around the mural project. HastingsNow’s own photographer (and Mural enthusiast) Ashley has been on-site nearly every day, capturing hundreds of professional photos as the mural progresses step by step. The images, posted in daily galleries, have generated an outpouring of community enthusiasm online. Residents who haven’t made it downtown yet are eagerly following the updates through HastingsNow’s coverage. On social media, the reaction has been overwhelmingly positive – and emotional. “Beautiful!!” Natasha commented, summing up the simple joy many feel seeing the new artwork unfold. Another local marveled, “When you come over the bridge into Hastings it catches your eye. It is beautiful and we thank you!” Many lifelong residents appreciate the blend of old and new: the mural’s message still says “Welcome,” but the style and vibrancy feel fresh and forward-looking.
Comments have been pouring in: “I love it so far!!” wrote Hannah, while Julie said, “I can’t believe how quickly it has progressed. Can’t wait to see the final product!” Perhaps most telling was a note from a community member who simply said, “Thanks to all that are involved. Lovely.” It’s clear this mural isn’t just a project for the hired artists or the building owners – it’s truly a community effort and source of pride. Local businesses have rallied behind the project—Quarry Taphouse is not only lending its south wall but is also covering project costs alongside a City grant—and organizations from the Hastings Area Historical Society to the Hastings Prescott Arts Council have been cheering the new artwork as a perfect meeting point of local history and public art.
As the final touches are being added in the coming days, plans are likely in the works for some sort of unveiling or celebration. Don’t be surprised to see a crowd gathered downtown when the mural is officially completed – and David Youngren will surely be among them, applauding the new artists’ achievement. For David, seeing residents embrace the change has been heartwarming. The old mural meant a lot to people; to see the new one already sparking joy means the legacy is in good hands. “It’s wonderful,” one resident commented, and that single word might capture the mood of the whole town.
Mural image provided by HastingsNow.com/ashley, capturing the vibrant local artwork.
Full Circle: The Original Artist’s Next Chapter
For David Youngren, the “Hastings on the Mississippi” mural will always hold a special place in his heart – it’s a part of his legacy as an artist. But David’s story didn’t stop in 1998. In fact, he’s busier than ever pursuing his passion right here in Hastings. “Five years ago I opened a studio in St. Paul,” he says, “right about the time that COVID hit.” The timing proved challenging – with the pandemic making travel and gallery visits difficult, David eventually decided to bring his creative base back home. “I closed it up and brought my studio back here to Hastings,” he shares. Since then, he’s been operating Youngren Art Studio in the historic Finch Building on Second Street, right in downtown Hastings.
Now, on any given day, you might find David in his studio – likely with a paintbrush or camera in hand. “I’m in there almost every day,” he chuckles, anticipating that some might tease him for being a workaholic. But for David, it hardly feels like work. Whether he’s painting a new canvas or photographing a scene along the Mississippi, it’s clear that art is what keeps him going. “It keeps me out of trouble,” he jokes, “and it’s right where I want to be – right in downtown Hastings.” Having David’s creative energy anchored in the heart of the city is a quiet boon for Hastings. Visitors can drop by to see his latest paintings, and locals often peek in to say hi or watch him work. In a way, Dave himself has become another welcoming presence downtown, much like his mural was for so long.
David also stays connected with the community online. “You can find me on Youngren Art Studio out on Facebook,” he notes, inviting anyone interested to follow his artistic journey. He posts updates a couple of times a week – progress on a new painting, a stunning photograph he’s captured, or news about local art events. “A lot of people like to follow along as I’m doing a painting,” David says. It’s a fun way for folks to see a piece of art take shape from start to finish, and it keeps everyone in touch with the artist behind the work. If you’ve been inspired by the mural story, checking out David’s studio or social media is a great way to keep that inspiration flowing (and you might just find the perfect Hastings-themed artwork for your home!).
David Youngren demonstrates his impressive artistic skills as he carefully picks up a paint brush to delicately color a single flower petal in the vibrant new mural. View image galleries.
Bridging Past and Future – Together as a Community
Standing back and looking at the nearly completed new mural, it’s impossible not to feel a surge of hometown pride. This huge piece of art isn’t just on a wall in Hastings – it’s now a part of the fabric of Hastings. It represents continuity and change all at once: the phrase “Welcome to Hastings” remains, but the design around it has been revitalized for a new era. It honors the river town’s heritage with imagery that longtime residents will recognize, yet it also injects a bold, contemporary flair that reflects Hastings’ forward momentum.
In many ways, the story of these murals is the story of Hastings itself. A community that values its history while embracing fresh ideas; a place where young talent is given a canvas (literally) to express itself, with the guidance and blessing of those who came before. David Youngren’s journey – from painting the first mural in the 90s, to cheering on the new artists in 2025, to nurturing his own art studio downtown – beautifully illustrates that sense of continuity. As Dave passes by the new mural in the coming years, he’ll see a bit of his younger self in it, and the new artists will always know they’re building on a foundation he helped lay. It’s a special connection that makes this project much more than just a fresh coat of paint.
Finally, this mural has reminded all of us that public art has the power to bring people together. Over the past few weeks, we’ve seen neighbors chatting on the sidewalk, bikers pausing to take a look, kids pointing up in amazement at the giant images taking shape, and drivers slowing down just a tad to admire the view as they come into town. The wall at 2nd and Tyler Street has become a gathering spot and a conversation piece. And when the work is complete, Hastings will have a brand-new signature landmark – one that was created with skill, love, and community spirit.
Come See the Mural & Support Local Art!
The story doesn’t end here. Now it’s your turn to be a part of Hastings’ living history:
See it in Person: If you’re in the area, come downtown and see the “Welcome to Hastings” mural in person. Grab a bite at The Quarry Taphouse & Rock Range or take a stroll along 2nd Street – the mural is impossible to miss. Stand beneath it and feel the scale of it! Don’t forget to snap a photo and share your Hastings pride.
Explore the Photo Gallery: Couldn’t watch the mural being painted day by day? We’ve got you covered. Check out our daily photo gallery of the mural’s progress – from the first outlines to the final touches – to experience how this masterpiece came together. Each stage of the journey is documented in stunning images, exclusively on HastingsNow.com. (You might even spot David Youngren visiting the site in some shots!)
Follow David Youngren’s Art: Show some love to the original muralist who started it all. Follow Youngren Art Studio on Facebook to keep up with Dave’s latest paintings and photography. Better yet, stop by his studio in the Finch Building on Second Street to say hello. Supporting local artists like David helps keep Hastings’ creative spirit thriving.
Stay Tuned for the Full Story: This article is just part of the celebration. HastingsNow has also sat down with the new mural artists and community members for an upcoming podcast and feature story about the mural project’s impact. Keep an eye on our Interviews page for more in-depth coverage, behind-the-scenes video clips of the artists in action, and heartfelt reactions from folks around town.
Hastings, Minnesota, has a lot to be proud of – and this revitalized welcome mural is a beautiful symbol of our town’s pride, creativity, and unity. It connects our past with our future, all in one giant splash of color. So whether you’re a lifelong resident or a first-time visitor, we invite you to enjoy this new mural. Share in the story, share a photo, and most of all, share the Hastings community spirit that it represents. Welcome to Hastings, once again – we can’t wait to show you what we’ve painted for you!
