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Visible Progress On Shawn Forton's Mural

Shawn Forton is painting a Havre de Grace-themed mural.

 

The daily updates on Shawn Forton's Facebook page simply outline his project.

On Monday: "I plan on working on Day 7 of the wall today if this rain will hurry and pass."

Thursday: "Day 9 of the HDG Mural has begun."

The real effort is visible in the sweat dripping from Forton's forehead atop a ladder leaning against his latest masterpiece.

The Havre de Grace native has turned a block wall along the Amtrak line behind the Susquehanna Hose Company No. 1 House into a mural featuring landmarks and scenes from around Havre de Grace.

Take a look for yourself—in the photo slideshow with this post, or for yourself.

Do you have photos of Shawn Forton's wall? Add them to this post.

Forton, 28, said Thursday afternoon he's planning to add some more color and a few more images to the mural. He'll also touch up many of the features already in place. One blank spot remained, to be filled by the new War of 1812 logo the city will use for the bicentennial of the British attacks on the city, he said.

Forton took off the entire month of July to work on the project. The extreme heat has slowed his progress at times, but it hasn't stopped the 2002 Havre de Grace High School alum. He said he plans to use the more comfortable temperatures of the weekend to make serious progress.

Another stumbling block: supplies. Forton has funded much of the project himself, and with help of friends, family and fans of his effort that have stopped by the project.

To make a donation to Forton's project, visit his Facebook page or email Patch editor Sean Welsh for more information.

Forton made headlines within the last year for his portrait artwork of professional athletes.

His work—which he is selling—includes some of the following stars: Ravens stars Terrell Suggs, Ray Lewis, Ray Rice, Bernard Pollard, Bernard Peirce, Ed Reed, Anquan Boldin and Torrey Smith; Redskins Brian Orakpo; Eagles Michael Vick and Brian Westbrook.

Forton said he is currently working on portraits of Orioles and Yankees players.

But his biggest and most visible canvas isn't complete.

TELL US: Is there another wall in the area that should be the focus of a mural? Leave a comment.

Related Topics: Havre de Grace Art, Havre de Grace Murals, and Shawn Forton Mural

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