Volunteers participating in the recent Big Day of Service (BDOS) joined with staff members of Sunrise MarketPlace and the artist Sharol L. Norton to help paint a colorful new mural along an exterior wall of the Pet Food Express building. Photo courtesy of Sunrise MarketPlace

CITRUS HEIGHTS, CA (MPG) - Volunteers participating in the recent Big Day of Service (BDOS) joined with staff members of Sunrise MarketPlace to help paint a colorful new mural along an exterior wall of the Pet Food Express building located at 6177 Sunrise Blvd.

The new mural designed by artist Sharon L. Norton continues the floral pattern of a previously completed work on an exterior wall which faces Sunrise Boulevard.

In the ground-level scene against a blue backdrop, a bluebird perches gently on top of a yellow sunflower, while a puppy with floppy ears and a button nose admires a butterfly landing on a rose. 

The middle portion of the panel invites the viewer to look up into the orange petals of blooming California poppies.

In the ground-level scene, a bluebird perches gently on top of a yellow sunflower, with an adorable young pup with floppy ears and a cute button nose admires a butterfly lighting on a rose. Photo by Thomas J. Sullivan

At the end of the panel, an inquisitive cat places its nose against the petal of a tulip, captivated by the scent.

“We were honored to work alongside Sharon and an amazing group of volunteers to bring this beautiful new mural to life at the Marketplace at Birdcage,” said Kathilynn Carpenter, its executive director. Carpenter was a Big Day of Service project lead for the mural and helped pay for materials necessary to complete the project.

Just before the day of the Big Day of Service event, Norton created a guide outline pattern which would help the volunteers paint just the right color needed.

Over the years, Norton’s works have ranged from commissioned portrait paintings of friends, family and pets to California landscapes.

The new mural was designed by artist Sharon L. Norton, continues the floral pattern of a previously completed work on an exterior wall which faces Sunrise Boulevard. Photo by Thomas J. Sullivan

With a vibrant pop-art style, her artwork is a lively display of favorite subjects. Norton has had a passion for art since she was a young girl growing up in Woodland, according to her artists’ biography. Her preferred mediums are oil, acrylic and watercolor.

Norton also earned a multimedia degree from ITT Institute and has attended Sacramento City College and Cal State Summer School for the Arts.

Pet Food Express in the Sunrise MarketPlace opened in July 2023. Located in front of the Walmart grocery store and just adjacent to the Lowe’s Home Improvement Center, Pet Food Express was once the location of a Men’s Wearhouse clothing store.

The new mural against a blue background was designed by Sacramento area artist Sharon L. Norton, now continues the floral pattern of a previously completed work on an exterior wall at Pet Food Express at 6177 Sunrise Blvd. in Citrus Heights. Photo by Thomas J. Sullivan

“This project is a wonderful reflection of the creativity, collaboration and community spirit that make our region so special,” Carpenter said.

Carpenter thanked everyone who dedicated their time, energy and talent to help create a vibrant piece of public art for all to enjoy.

Pet Food Express offers its pet customers an assortment of fresh, raw healthy foods, wholesome treats, healthcare supplies and stimulating toys. Bright signage and a Citrus Heights-themed wall mural inside invite customers to browse well-stocked aisles with familiar brands.

Pet Food Express at 6177 Sunrise Blvd. in the Sunrise MarketPlace is open Monday through Saturday from 9:30 a.m. to 8:30 p.m. and Sunday from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. For more information, call 916-884-0848.