The Womb will open later this month, and will be introduced to the community with a mural on the building by Brooklyn-based artist Maya Hayuk. The mural proposal came before the Arts Commission May 16 for approval. It was submitted by Coyne, Steve Mason, Chris Lee, Scott Booker and Rick Sinnett. Flaming Lips Inc. recently leased the ground floor of the building from Mason Realty Investors. 

“We have this wonderful opportunity to bring in this world-renowned artist,” said Sinnett, curator of The Womb.

Sinnett spoke on behalf of the group. He told commission members that if approved, work would begin May 24, and be completed by May 30. The design will incorporate lines and colorful geometric shapes. In response to questions, Sinnett assured members them that the art would be tasteful, and no lurid or explicit images would be included on the exterior of the building.

Lee represented his employer, Mason, owner of the building – the former Mel’s Towing, built in 1947 as a Studebaker dealership. It was dilapidated when Mason bought it in 2009, Lee said. Mason also owns buildings he revitalized along that block of NW 9 Street, just east of Broadway Avenue on Automobile Alley that house Sara Sara Cupcakes, Pachinko Parlor, Iguana Mexican Grill and other businesses.

“This is a big improvement for the neighborhood,” Lee said. “We’re trying to develop an arts and entertainment district and this falls in very nicely.”

While the group is still working to define what exactly the space will be used for, Sinnett explained that it would be an ongoing art project to incorporate the works and efforts of local and internationally known artists. The space will also encourage community involvement and provide a venue that he said will not be like a traditional art gallery, but rather an ongoing, experimental art project.

“It will be constantly evolving,” Sinnett said. “We want to create an experience.”

The mural was approved by the commission and now moves to the Downtown Design Review Committee.