Dupuie said having a muralist complete the entire piece alone would defeat the purpose of the project.

On Aug. 15, Canvas and Culture will transform the Tanque Verde Swap Meet into a one-night art destination filled with live entertainment, hands-on activities and local artists. Guests can help create a community-painted mural.

Courtesy of United Flea Markets

“But that takes the interactive element and the community involvement out of that, and that’s really what we’re looking for with this event,” Dupuie said.

Dupuie hopes families will return to the swap meet years later, point to the mural and remember the small part they played in creating it.

Beyond the mural, visitors can expect rock painting, chalk art, a canvas-painting class and body marbling, an activity that creates colorful patterns on the skin. The event will also feature live entertainment and additional art activities throughout the market.

The swap meet’s regular vendors and food options will remain open, with additional vendors joining them for the event. Artists, makers and other vendors interested in participating can apply through the Canvas and Culture website or contact the Tanque Verde Swap Meet.

Although the event is currently planned as a one-night event, Dupuie hopes it can return in future years. Future community art projects could be painted on buildings, stages, shipping containers or other parts of the market.

“There are different things that we can really get creative and have the community really put a fingerprint on and have something that they can cherish as a community for the next 10, 20 years,” he said.

The event is open to all ages. Admission is $2, and children ages 12 and younger get in free.

“Not only do people come to a swap meet to find great deals on products, but great deals on experiences as well,” Dupuie said.

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