The Story Behind

THE HIGHLANDS PARK AQUATIC CENTER TILE MURAL

If you’ve visited Highlands Park Aquatic Center (HPAC) located at 245 S. Spring Rd. you no doubt noticed the intricate tile mural paying homage to the surrounding wetlands.

The community tile mural planning began in 2011 and included the Arts Council of Westerville and Westerville Parks and Recreation. The idea was to bring the community together to lend their creative flair to a project that could be enjoyed for years to come.

Designed by local artist and teacher, Eric Cacioppo, the mural required more than 1,100 tiles and multiple scenes to be created. Citizens, school children, camp kids, area businesses and community partners carved and painted clay tiles with a “paint by number” technique which, when placed together, created a beautiful wetlands scene complete with lily pads, frogs, otters and even a heron or two. A map, installed near the mural, is available with numbered spaces so those who took part could find their special tile.

Visit HPAC (245 S. Spring Rd.) this summer and view this masterpiece and maybe you can find that special tile that you or someone you know created.