Rising from the Prairie

Created by Daniel Perry (Waterloo, IA)

Project History

In 2016, the City Council approved a master plan for Historic West Des Moines. As part of this plan, a permanent restroom facility was built at Railroad Park in 2018. The community requested that public art be added to the outside of the new building.

In 2022, the City allocated $50,000 for the project. Out of 16 national applicants, the City selected artist Daniel Perry to create a commissioned piece that represents the "heart and soul" of Historic Valley Junction.

The Artist's Vision

This two-piece artwork tells the story of West Des Moines’ past, present, and future. The murals feature several local symbols, including:

  • Native prairie grasses
  • Railroad elements
  • The Valley Junction Arch
  • Historic landmarks and a city roadmap

A bright blue band runs through both pieces to represent the Raccoon River, visually connecting the two murals.

Rising from the Prairie was officially unveiled on December 7, 2023. It is located at 425 Railroad Avenue.

A mural on the side of a brick building featuring abstract metal prairie grasses and a blue band representing the Raccoon River. Close-up of the Rising from the Prairie mural showing intricate metalwork silhouettes of historic Valley Junction buildings against a brick background.