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8/23/2012 - West Side Leader
     

By Kathleen Folkerth

Photo: Ken Love

DOWNTOWN AKRON — Musicians performing at Lock 4 will have some of the greats looking over them thanks to the work of Akron artist Michael Ayers. He’s been working on the large mural overlooking the LockBottom Blues & Jazz Club outdoor concert venue since July 1. Ayers is shown above last week as he put the finishing touches on the work, which was to be dedicated Aug. 22.

According to Akron officials, members of the Leadership Akron Class XXVII (2011-12) were so impressed with Ayers’ idea for the mural that they donated money to support the project. Ayers also received contributions from the Kenneth L. Calhoun Charitable Trust, which is the sponsor of Lock 4 concerts, along with the Akron Civic Theatre.

The artist also received help from Coon Restoration, which donated equipment to lift the artist up to paint the mural.

Ayers said he depicted music greats Ornette Coleman, Miles Davis, Billie Holiday, Thelonious Monk, Wes Montgomery and Max Roach in the mural.

There are still two Wednesday night concert events planned this summer for those curious about the venue, which has offered concerts since 2010. On Aug. 29, the Dan Wilson Group will perform. Blue Lunch will play on Sept. 5. Performances start at 7 p.m. The location also features Urban Eats, featuring food by chef Jason Scala.

Lock 4 is also the site of Gospel Sunday concerts from 7 to 9 p.m. Next up, on Aug. 26, is The House of the Lord Choir. On Sept. 2, the Mt. Calvary Baptist Church Choir will perform.

Lock 4 is down under Bowery Street, adjacent to the Lock 3 concert venue. It is connected directly to the Cascade Parking Garage, which provides direct access to Lock 4 from level two (orange). Walkways from Bowery Street and from Lock 3 are other entrances to the site. All Lock 4 performances are free. For details, go to www.lock3live.com.

— By Kathleen Folkerth

     

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