"I want to capture the vitality of the elderly in the community, through a variety of roles-- as educators, role models, caretakers and artists. And to incorporate their wisdom and life experience with children's curiosity," said award-winning artist Chandelle Anderson.

If you haven't seen this eye-catching, in-process project yet, go to 219th Street between Marine View Drive and 7th Avenue South. Look for the south plaza wall in the QFC shopping block, just behind Andy's Spiro's Gyros restaurant and next to Kim's Des Moines Nail Salon.

There, on the south end of that shopping plaza wall, you'll likely see Anderson with her paintbrush creating this city's only 12' by 37' mural.

Even in just the beginning of the creative stage, this colorful mural lends a sense of community. It's about time-- the time of life, time of joy sharing that day in nature's beauty young and old alike sharing music, singing, and fishing in the park.

I tried to picture myself there -- what fun. See for yourself.

Watching the mural develop is captivating. This art can be a significant attraction to downtown Des Moines.

Anderson said, "My vision is a realistic outdoor scene in a park by the water on a summer evening. Sunset is reflecting off the water creating a warm glow throughout the painting."

With the skills of Anderson, Art Commission support and funding from Des Moines Legacy Foundation donations, that vision is becoming fact.

History repeats itself and memory reminds me that once before there was a mural painted on that very wall. An active community booster and artist opened her unique gift shop there featuring seashore art and gifts.

On that very wall, her son painted a beautiful mural of crystal-clear blue water and a wet-suit diver swimming among sea animals near the fishing pier. When she closed the business someone painted white paint all over that mural. But I digress.

Artist Anderson said "I was pleasantly surprised by the hospitality people here shared with me right from the start, especially Andy at his Greek restaurant and Kim and her husband, Lee at the nail salon. Everyone is so nice and helpful."

Before I met Anderson several people told me she is not only extremely talented, but also just as nice as she is pretty. Now I agree. A rare and likely coveted lady, she is a soul of religious respect with an in-depth look into human nature that defies the youngness of her age.

Artists, painters, musician, and such creative folks are interesting souls. They see and create everyday beauty of life to share that is often overlooked.

"My work tends to explore the role of the human in the natural environment and give direct attention to the intricate beauty and simplicity that exists all around us and relates all animals, plants and other natural forms," Chandelle said.

As I know this city there are always outstanding and devoted residents willingly contributing time, energy and more to keep it just as Chandelle found Des Moines to be -- people friendly and naturally beautiful.

Credit Des Moines Historical Society for preserving history. Senior Center, Rotary Club and every organization, man, woman, child who love this little city as we before have loved it.

And thanks to seven City Council members who we trust will collectively promote, pursue, and maintain that level of living. You approved an Arts Commission and beautiful mural. Great start -- let's not stop there.

The reason Anderson chose drawing music and reading activities in the mural was because those are timeless actions people have in common.

With a last look at the mural I started to leave, saying to Chandelle, "Now you'll have to come up with a name for that mural."

To which Chandelle replied, "You're the one with the art of words, I paint. What would you name it?"

Flattered, I gave the painting a searching scan saying, "Celebrating Life," that's what I'd name it - -because that's what the people are doing. Kids, seniors and in-between are together in nature's beauty "Celebrating Life."

"That's what I'll name it, "Celebrating Life!" The name fits," Anderson said.

In her bid to create this mural she wrote that the finish material she applies is expected to last 100 years.

And I smiled to myself all the way home.