Murals
Bismarck’s walls are getting a lot more interesting lately - how exciting, right?
From underpasses to downtown buildings, new murals are popping up around the city, turning once-ordinary spaces into vibrant public art. One of the most exciting projects has been the transformation of the Bismarck Expressway Pedestrian Tunnel. Nicole Gagner, alongside fellow artist Molly McLain, led this incredible community-driven effort. What started as a simple idea to deter graffiti became a celebration of local art, color, and connection.
What makes these projects really special is the community involvement. These aren’t just “paint and done” murals — they’re made with the help of local volunteers, kids, and neighbors who pick up brushes and literally leave their mark on the city. Art like this brings people together, sparks conversations, and makes public spaces feel more inviting.
So why hire a muralist? Because murals do more than just decorate a wall — they tell stories. They brighten up spaces, whether it's a business, a school, a public park, or even a tunnel under the highway. A mural can reflect your values, share your mission, and create a space that people want to visit and remember. Whether you’re a small business looking to stand out or a community leader wanting to bring people together, a custom mural is a powerful, lasting way to make an impact.
Nicole brings not just her talent but her deep roots in the community to every project. She knows how to listen, collaborate, and turn your vision into something bold and beautiful. If you’re ready to bring some color and creativity to your space — let’s paint something amazing together.
where to find murals and art
 Expressway TunnelCollaborative Mural with Bismarck Parks and Rec and Burleigh County Public Health (more info in link) |  tunnel walkerit was great to see it in use |  wrapping upwith a young art appreciator |
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 Expressway Tunnelmore about tunnel in linked article |  Mandan Art AlleyPrairie Threads- Community Mural |  close upimagery in this mural include references to folk art and gardening |
 art alley opening daywith an image of my mural on an Unconventional Cookie! |  installation daythe mandan art alley |  in progressmural panels being painted |
 little helperpainting mural panels |  UTTCsustainable Ag program mural- located near gardens and greenhouse |  installationpolytab training with uttc students |
 in progressmural panels being painted |  activity path |  northern plains danceactivity mural path |
 activity muralpainted for BPH outside of NPD |  rolla muralcollaboration with students of Rolla ND |  South DakotaStudent Mural |
 student muralartist residecy collaboration |  watertownstudent mural |  pickle mural |
 Lewis and Clark Muralcollaborative Artist Residency |  AIR MuralLewis and Clark Elementary in Mandan |  School Muralin progress |
 polytab installationmandan art alley community mural |  mural panelin progress |  temporarary mural!collaboration with kids on a black wall at a local park |
 pickle muralart alley 5.5 |  progress shotprojecting mural panels |  hot air balloonspainted for a local business |
 school mural |  west fargo street muralcommunity collaboration mural for a street festival |  mandan art alleycommunity polytab mural |
 art alley bismarck north dakotalocated betwen 5th and 6th street one block north of main st in Bismarck |  expressway tunnelartists, assistants and installation crew |  electricity panel haybale muralacross the street from Dykshorn Park in Mandan ND |