The newest mural in downtown Exeter is pretty wild, literally.

Exeterís 25th mural by local artist Steven Ball brings to life a large mountain lion bordered by footprints of species of wildlife native to this area. A special dedication ceremony will be at 6:30 p.m. June 26.

When planning for the mural the mural team had one artist in mind.

ìSteven is just so good with the critters,î said President Betsy Peterson. ìHe was really the person we wanted and heís just been so great to work with.î

Steven Louis Ball is a wildlife artist who enjoys studying and painting many different kinds of birds and animals - from the majestic eagle to his famed quail.

It has been said that every painting, in some way, becomes a self-portrait of its creator. Ballís passionate involvement with the natural world is plain to see. Besides paintings, he has limited edition etchings and lithographs.

Ball studied at the Los Angeles Art Center College of Design, where he received his formal training in design and illustration. He has been a free lance artist since the early ë70ís. Ballís art is now a part of many corporate and private collections throughout the states and abroad.

He is also currently one of the featured artists at the Courthouse Gallery of Arts. The show called ìNatureís Kaleidoscopeî also features artists Jon Crowley and Thomas Booth will hang until June 29.

Wine and hor díoeuvres will be served at the dedication for a nominal fee and the name of the mural will be revealed.

Guests will be treated to bluegrass music and can join in their chance to enter numerous raffles including one for a print of the mural.

Raffle tickets are $1 each or six for $5. Signed prints and t-shirts with the mural will also be available for purchase.

ìWeíre very excited,î said Peterson. ìItís just so beautiful.î

The mural is located on the east wall of California Temperature Controls, 200 East Maple (corner of Maple & E Streets). For more information call 592-2919.

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