“Following the Baraboo River” is a six-part mural installed along the south facing wall of the Baraboo Civic Center parking lot. The project began in the fall of 2019 when a downtown merchant suggested that the location needed some sprucing up. The Baraboo Public Art Association sent out a call for entries to Baraboo school district students. The winning design suggested by then 17-year-old student Isabella Martinez reflects her memories of school lessons and love of the natural settings along the river. Isabella and several other students painted the panels between June and September 2020.

A local contractor  framed and installed the six panels after the wall surface was prepared by City employees. The project was funded by contributions from BPAA, individuals, and a grant from Sauk County Arts, Humanities and Historic Preservation. Despite being delayed by COVID and having to paint outdoors during hot summer months, the project resulted in a vibrant, eye-catching work of public art. As one passer-by exclaimed, “It’s so bright and bold and beautiful. And we need this now.”