Albion College Celebrates French Sister Cities with New 700‑Square‑Foot Mural
Legacy of Albion’s Sister City Program
For more than a quarter of a century, Albion College’s partnership with Noisy‑le‑Roi and Bailly in France has linked students, faculty, and local residents across continents. The relationship has produced thousands of exchanges, from art exhibitions in 2019 to joint research projects in 2023. The dedication of the new mural in September 2024 marks the latest milestone, inviting Albion students and visitors to view the enduring friendship visualized on brick.
Designing the Mural: From Concept to Canvas
Art professor Michael Dixon turned the concept of a visual tribute into a 700‑square‑foot piece. The design incorporates the signature architectural windows of Versailles, limestone pillars of Bailly, and the curved arc of Noisy‑le‑Roi’s town hall. Dixon’s three‑phase workflow—research, sketching, and on‑site scaffolding—ensured authenticity while managing the technical constraints of a brick facade.
- Research phase: Archive photographs and town records guided the placement of historic landmarks.
- Graphic phase: Digital mock‑ups helped refine color palettes that respect the weathering of exterior paint.
- Execution phase: Teams of students and volunteers applied primers and layers at high‑altitude ladders before handing the finished mural to the public.
Throughout the process, Dixon emphasized community input, collaborating with the Sister City Committee to incorporate symbols that resonate with both sides of the Atlantic.
Technical Mastery on a Brick Surface
Painting on brick presents unique challenges: uneven mortar, adhesive variability, and higher absorption rates. Dixon adapted by:
- Priming each section to prevent discoloration.
- Applying a minimum of three coats for color vibrancy.
- Using heat‑resistant, low‑VOC paint to safeguard the environment.
“The crack lines in the wall felt like a puzzle,” Dixon recalled. “Every brushstroke had to account for varying textures, making the mural almost perform as a tactile map.”
The Mural’s Artistic Elements and Symbolism
Beyond representing cityscapes, the mural conveys the shared values of education, athleticism, and culture:
- The Iron Bridge symbolizes the crossing of ideas between campuses.
- Sporting silhouettes celebrate joint athletic programs hosted by Albion’s Student Life division.
- Floral motifs reflect the culinary exchanges between French cafés and Albion’s dining services.
- Academic scrolls illustrate the joint research papers published by Albion and French universities.
Community Impact and Youth Engagement
The project’s success is partially due to the active participation of Albion students: over 200 volunteers helped paint and document the process. The underwriters, led by the Albion Philanthropic Women, praised the work, stating that it “represents the exchange and the love that’s been developed.”
Students across campus used the mural as a backdrop for social media, fostering a sense of pride and unity. The mural also serves as a teaching tool for art professors and art students illustrating large‑scale public art logistics.
Visionary Leadership: Dixon and Guenin‑Lelle
Professor Dianne Guenin‑Lelle, co‑chair of the Sister City Committee, highlighted the translating of policy into practice. Her emphasis on the program’s human dimension is evident when she stated, “It’s heartwarming to see a great accomplishment that brings us closer over distances.”
Dixon’s statement, “I love the Sister City Committee,” reinforces the partnership’s foundation of mutual respect and collaborative ambition.
How Students Experience the Mural Every Day
Placed on the south exterior wall of the Secretary of State office, the mural is visible from the main student walkways. Honors seminars on international relations often reference the mural in discussions about civic diplomacy. Photography and media clubs incorporate the mural into their creative portfolios, and the local newspaper syncs articles with the mural’s unveiling.
Looking Ahead: Sustaining International Ties
Albion College plans to expand the mural’s reach through digital tours, interactive plaques, and ghost tours for students. Future workshops will engage new cohorts, ensuring a continuous pipeline of artists who appreciate the cultural significance of sister city collaborations.
Such initiatives align with Albion’s mission to nurture responsible leaders who understand the importance of diversity and global engagement.
Next Steps
If you’re interested in becoming part of a community that values art, education, and international partnership, submit your application today. For those curious about how small acts enrich student life, explore Albion’s programs and discover where your interests align.
Want a deeper dive into the procedure of mural creation or intercity exchanges? learn more about Albion’s community events or schedule a campus tour to experience the mural in person.
Have questions? Write to us and we’ll be happy to share more.
