CINCINNATI — Queen City Book Bank will have a new ArtWorks mural designed by renowned artist and author Loren Long.

Long's piece is designed after his newest book, "The Yellow Bus."

Ten ArtWorks Apprentices, comprised of local high school and post-high schoolerers between the ages of 14 to 21, and two Teaching Artists have begun to work on the mural.

“We are ecstatic about this very special project with Loren, ArtWorks and Macmillan Publishers,” said Michelle Otten Guenther, CEO of the QCBB. “'The Yellow Bus’ will be our signature book for the 2024–25 school year and its simple, but profound, message will set the tone for an inspiring year ahead. This unique mural reinforces that by working together our community makes literacy a priority.”

The mural is a lively, mission-minded scene from the book and is coming to life on a grand scale outside the Book Bank's headquarters, 1200 Gest St. in Queensgate.

Loren has lived in Cincinnati for more than three decades and is a member of the QCBB board. "The Yellow Bus," is Loren's latest book about a forgotten school bus that finds joy and purpose in the most unexpected places and in the journey along the way. 

Loren's has ilustrated nearly 30 books and has appeared on the New York Times bestseller list 12 times. His latest book goes on sale on June 25, 2024 from Roaring Brook Press. The book bank itself will distribute 3,500 copies to children in its curated book program beginning in September. 

The public will be able to hear from Long and the mural team at the free Wet Paint public speaking event on July 11 from 6 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. at 21C Museum Hotel, 609 Walnut St. in Cincinnati. Advanced registration is required for this event. 

Apprentices shall complete their mural work in early August and Artworks and the QCBB ar eplanning a mural dedication celebration in mid-September.