Tori Shao, a Seattle-based illustrator and landscape architect, is creating a mural for the staircase behind DICK’S Sporting Goods in Grand Ridge Plaza, drawing inspiration from the local hiking trails and natural beauty of the region. The community is invited to a ribbon-cutting ceremony on September 12 to celebrate the mural's completion. Shao's design reflects her deep connection to nature, developed during her upbringing in the Pacific Northwest, and will feature vibrant colors inspired by native plants like the Pacific Trillium and kokanee salmon. She believes that murals play a crucial role in fostering community engagement and conveying cultural narratives. Additionally, Shao emphasizes the importance of public art in addressing social and environmental issues, making art accessible to all.

Her journey into mural painting began during the pandemic when she painted over boarded-up storefronts, igniting her passion for large-scale art. This mural aims to enhance community identity and inspire a shared connection to the environment.