In a momentous occasion that fulfills a seven-year dream, the “Otis Williams & The Temptations Mural” has been successfully installed on the wall of Gold Star Finance, formerly City Bakery, located at 3rd St./Scott Joplin Way @ Main Street in Historic Downtown Texarkana.
The mural, a tribute to Texarkana’s native son Otis Williams and the iconic group he founded, The Temptations, is a stunning work of art crafted by the talented artist Darlene Taylor. Taylor’s magic brushes brought the vision to life, capturing the essence of the legendary musical journey embarked upon by Otis Williams and The Temptations.
The dedication ceremony for the mural is scheduled to take place in January, coinciding with the concert featuring Dr. Otis Williams and The Temptations at the Perot Theatre on the 19th of the month. The dedication promises to be a significant event, marking the culmination of efforts to honor a musical legacy that has left an indelible mark on the world.
A heartfelt appreciation goes out to Scott Marr at Gold Star Finance, along with over a dozen sponsors and donors whose contributions made this artistic endeavor possible. Among the key contributors are the Texarkana Arts & Historic District, Richard H. Reynolds, Jr., Ron Mills of the Patterson-Troike Foundation, Mike & Pete Mankins, Wilbur Smith Rotary Club, Dr. Dewitt C. Fortenberry, Jeff Brown @ JBrown for the Home, David Peavy, Texarkana Music Teachers Association, Mike & Vicki Carr @ Studio57, Lowe’s Hardware Texarkana, Dot’s Rentals, and many others.
Before the official Unveiling and dedication Reception in mid-January 2024, the mural will undergo some final touches, including touch-ups, the application of a sealer, and the refurbishment of the parking lot. The community is eagerly anticipating this momentous event, and details regarding the time and date will be communicated to all interested parties.
Local family members of Dr. Otis Williams and The Temptations, as well as the broader community, will be invited to partake in the celebration. Dr. Williams, who actively collaborated during the entire mural creation process, has expressed his profound gratitude for the support extended by his hometown.
Texarkana is buzzing with excitement as the city gears up to unveil a magnificent mural that not only pays homage to its native son and his musical legacy but also stands as a testament to the power of community collaboration and artistic expression.
