The Pullman Arts Commission met Tuesday to discuss submissions for the End Racism Now mural.

The mural submissions are posted on the PAC Facebook page for the public to view and vote on, said Lori Lewis, Neill Public Library administrative assistant. 

PAC chair Jeri Harris said the Pullman community can provide feedback on the murals until Feb. 7. 

There are five submissions from three different artists, she said.

One mural is colorful and incorporates the themes of BLM and “end racism now,” Harris said. However, PAC member John Rich said the mural looks racist because of the way the children are drawn. 

“It’s a little bit racist, some real stereotype faces on there,” he said. 

Harris said she thinks it is powerful, not racist. She said this mural needs to be sent out to the public. 

“It allows the public to form their own thoughts about the mural,” she said.

One of the artists created a mural that has the word “Imagine” on it, Harris said. One version is in black and white and the other has some color.

The mural is inspired by John Lennon’s song “Imagine,” according to the PAC Facebook page. 

“Imagine will stimulate greater mutual respect and empower more dreamers here on the Palouse,” according to the Facebook page.

Harris said she likes both versions of the Imagine mural. However, she said the version that has color is the only one that should be sent to the public. 

“We’re trying to make a statement,” she said. “I think the black and white … is not exactly what we’re going for on it.” 

Another mural has the words “Black Lives Matter.” Harris said this mural has great visuals.

PAC Member Katie Bunch Emerson said she likes this mural because it encourages community members to live up to the meaning of the BLM statement.

“I think that that’s a huge thing about this, just getting more of the community involved,” Emerson said. “I think this one does that by the description.” 

Harris said one of the murals is bright and colorful. The commission would need to work with the artist to alter the mural so it fits the space provided by the city. 

PAC will meet Feb. 9 to discuss community feedback about the murals.