Purdue University Northwest adds local mural to Hammond campus

"Over the years, we have tried to provide exposure to the visual arts for our students and members of the community who visit our campuses," says Stephen Turner, vice chancellor for Finance and Administration. "The mural grew out of a desire to enhance the student experience in ways they otherwise might not encounter."

The large-scale, graffiti-style street art mural represents a bold expression of PNW spirit in a space where students gather, study and connect every day.

"The goal was to bring new energy and personality to one of our most heavily used student spaces," says Elizabeth Babcock Depew, vice chancellor for Enrollment Management and Student Affairs. "We’ve been intentional about creating campus environments that are welcoming, engaging and places where students genuinely want to spend their time. We wanted something bold, creative and a little unexpected."

The goal was to bring new energy and personality to one of our most heavily used student spaces.

Elizabeth Babcock Depew, vice chancellor for Enrollment Management and Student Affairs

The piece was created by Felix "FLEX" Maldonado, Jr., a native of East Chicago who operates FLEX Creative LLC. out of Hammond. A prominent local artist with strong roots in Northwest Indiana, Maldonado is also an entrepreneur who built a career around his passion and talent.

The university is adding a second mural by FLEX on an exterior retaining wall immediately west of the Student Union and Library Building which will feature a bird theme along the Peregrine Path.

Turner notes that these murals will enhance "curb appeal" for PNW, which is important to students, parents and decision makers when selecting a university. "The goal is to make an impression from the moment visitors walk through the doors," says Turner.

"There’s something exciting about seeing graffiti-style art in a traditional university setting," says Depew. "It brings a completely different energy to the space."