A community-driven cycling mural celebrating inclusion is now at risk—raising major concerns about transparency and the future of public art in Bentonville, Arkansas.
Words by Mia de Paula in conjunction with Press Release
In the heart of one of America’s most bike-friendly towns, a mural created to celebrate diversity and cycling culture is under unexpected review by city officials. The All Bike(r)s Welcome mural—located in the NW 3rd Street tunnel connecting to Coler Preserve—was completed in October 2024 and has since become a popular landmark along Bentonville’s trail corridor.
Created by artist Paige Dirksen and shaped by input from more than 80 community members, the artwork was intended as a bold, joyful symbol of belonging on the trails. Now, just months later, the project is at the center of a heated debate around public art, civic accountability, and inclusive representation.
This mural was created by the community, for the community — over 80 people came together to bring it to life. As the convener of that effort, it’s incredibly disheartening to see it subjected to scrutiny that other public art projects in Bentonville haven’t faced. What we wanted was a healthy dialogue around this, and no process has been followed to revisit it formally through the Public Art Advisory Committee as requested. If the city is asking for changes, the community deserves a clear and honest explanation. Without transparency or consistency, we risk undermining the very values this mural represents — inclusion, collaboration, and trust
A Mural for All Riders—and All Communities
The mural was spearheaded by a coalition of local groups including All Bikes Welcome, the Bentonville Moves Coalition, Visit Bentonville, and the Mid-America Arts Alliance. With vibrant visuals and a clear message of welcome, the project honored feedback from a wide range of contributors—including children and members of historically excluded communities.
Approved through the proper city channels and installed with minor technical adjustments, the final mural stayed true to the original design proposal.
Lack of Clarity from Bentonville Officials
Two months after the public unveiling, Dirksen was contacted by the City of Bentonville regarding unspecified “inconsistencies” in the artwork. To date, no specific objections or corrective requests have been shared—despite multiple attempts by the artist and collaborators to open a constructive dialogue.
Even more concerning: the artist was denied access to speak at the city’s Public Art Advisory Committee and was issued a June 15 deadline to make changes to the mural, without clear direction or explanation.
Why the Community Is Concerned
Local advocates say this situation highlights a troubling breakdown in civic process and respect for public collaboration. Their concerns include: Vague, inconsistent communication from city officials. No transparency about who raised the issue or what the issue is. Disregard for standard public art review protocols. Silencing of artist and community voices. Potential chilling effect on future inclusive or community-led art projects.
What Supporters Are Doing—and How You Can Help
The Bentonville community is rallying behind the mural and urging city leadership to restore transparency and trust in public art decision-making.
Here’s how to get involved:
✅ Attend the Public Meetings – Tuesday, May 27
12:00 PM – Public Art Advisory Committee
6:00 PM – Bentonville City Council (public comments welcome)
📍 Community Development Building, 305 SW A St.
🔗 Register to attend virtually
✅ Email the City Council
Let your voice be heard by writing to CC.Comments@bentonvillear.com
✅ Visit, Photograph, and Share the Mural
📍 Location: NW 3rd Street Tunnel at Coler Preserve
📍 Coordinates: 36.375703, -94.237374
📲 Tag: @allbikeswelcome, @paigedirksenstudio, @bentonvillegov
What’s at Stake: More Than Paint on a Wall
As artist Paige Dirksen prepares to speak during public comment at the upcoming City Council meeting, the mural’s supporters say this is about more than one artwork.
“This isn’t just a mural—it’s a statement that everyone belongs on these trails. The process should reflect that, too,” said a spokesperson for All Bikes Welcome. “We’re not backing down.”
To learn more, view the full timeline, read community concerns, and get involved in advocacy efforts, visit the All Bikes Welcome website.