The Fabric of Council Bluffs Mural

Overview

Created by artist Ilaamen Pelshaw, The Fabric of Council Bluffs celebrates the people, places, industries, and landmarks that have shaped the community. Painted along the FIRST AVE Trail, the mural combines bold colors and geometric patterns with recognizable local symbols, including a vintage WRL Galaxy 300 Radio, the Golden Spike Monument, Bob Kerrey Pedestrian Bridge, the Loess Hills, the Missouri River, and a historic Omaha and Council Bluffs Street Railway car.

Together, these elements highlight the transportation networks, natural landscapes, innovation, and community spirit that helped define Council Bluffs across generations. Designed as both a work of public art and an interactive photo opportunity, the mural invites visitors to discover the many stories woven into the fabric of the city.

The mural is part of the FIRST AVE Trail Murals collection, a public art initiative coordinated by the City of Council Bluffs and supported by the Iowa West Foundation that transformed the corridor into an outdoor gallery showcasing the work of local and regional artists. For more on the project, visit FirstAveCB.com.

Explore more murals throughout Council Bluffs to discover additional works that celebrate the community's history, culture, and creativity.

Category: Attractions