While playing in the newly opened Spraypark inside Clintonwood Park, water enthusiasts will notice a colorful mural on the side of the utility shed, a creation brought to life by one caring Clarkston resident.
Mary Himburg had been following progress with the memorial Spraypark as soon as fund-raising efforts began. Himburg was touched by the project and wanted to help, but wasn’t sure how.
A chance meeting with Michele Przybylski, mother of Renee and the park’s namesake, at a wedding shower put Himburg in touch with the correct information and an idea on how to help.
‘It’s just such an amazing effort,? Himburg said. ‘It had such a good feeling about it.?
Przybylski suggested Himburg create a mural on the utility shed located just outside of the water park’s surface. The shed was blank and in need of some sprucing up.
‘Michele thought it would be a good idea for the shed,? Himburg said. ‘She let me do whatever I wanted, but she thought butterflies should be on it.?
With a butterfly theme in mind, Himburg made sketches of ideas for the shed and started compiling her ideas. She decided on big, bold butterflies flying over an outdoor landscape in primary colors to compliment the park’s color palette.
‘I thought it was a good design,? Himburg said.
Himburg’s mural was ready in time for the park’s dedication on Sept. 12. She believes meeting Przybylski was her way of helping the park.
‘It was just like it was meant to be,? Himburg said. ‘It was a unique opportunity for me to help.?
Having been associated with SCAMP for a number of years, Himburg enjoys helping those in her community.
‘I used to work for SCAMP and I loved the giving feeling there,? Himburg said. ‘This one (spraypark) felt the same way.?
Himburg started painting in 1990 after a series of decorative painting classes. From the classes she moved to painting furniture and eventually murals and faux finished pieces. Now semiretired, she still enjoys painting as a hobby and enjoys designing children’s rooms.
‘You can go anywhere with it,? Himburg said.
Just this past summer Himburg started fine art painting and watercolors to continue her love of the subject.
‘With art you can learn your whole life,? Himburg said. ‘You’re never done with it. I intend to keep painting the rest of my life. My husband says I’ll paint anything that stands still.?