Epic Jonathan Thunder mural enlivens Zenith Bookstore exterior

Epic Jonathan Thunder mural enlivens Zenith Bookstore exterior
Jonathan Thunder smiles while standing in front of an in-progress mural he painted on the exterior of Zenith Bookstore in Duluth on June 23.Dan Williamson / Duluth News Tribune

The Duluth News Tribune recently featured an article on an epic mural by celebrated artist Jonathan Thunder, which has brought a vibrant new life to the exterior of Zenith Bookstore in Duluth's Spirit Valley neighborhood. This mural, stretching 90 feet from the front to the rear of the building, is a visual celebration of imagination and the joy of reading. Thunder, known for his unique style that blends contemporary themes with traditional Ojibwe mythos, has created a series of images that encapsulate family values, intergenerational storytelling, and inspiration.

The mural, which began as a dream of bookstore co-owner Bob Dobrow, features imagery that nods to Duluth's natural and human-made landscapes, centering Indigenous communities and stories. One of the key elements of the mural is a depiction of a woman and child reading a book together, modeled after Thunder's own partner and child. This piece is more than just a mural; it's a testament to the power of storytelling and the importance of preserving and sharing history and imagination across generations.

To read the full article and learn more about Jonathan Thunder's incredible mural at Zenith Bookstore, visit Epic Jonathan Thunder mural enlivens Zenith Bookstore exterior. The article not only highlights Thunder's artistic brilliance but also delves into the deeper meanings and messages behind his work, offering a glimpse into the artist's vision of blending the realms of imagination and reality.