TIM TOPALOV: PSC EDUCATIONAL MURAL

Mason’s Potomac Environmental Research and Education Center and Murals at Mason have commissioned artist Tim Topalov to design and paint a highly-detailed 170-foot-long scientific mural for the exterior dockside wall of the Potomac Science Center on Occoquan River in Woodbridge. In collaboration with the Director, Dr. R. Christian Jones, and Dr. Cynthia Smith, Director of K-12 Education and Outreach, a design has been developed to be used as a teaching tool on local Potomac River ecosystems, environmental pollution, and stormwater management practices. 

The majority of the lower part of the mural design depicts underwater ecosystems, including plants, animals, and micro-organisms, which are still in development with the artist and participating scientists. The upper terrestrial component has five distinct regions, including a forest with flora and fauna that are native to Northern Virginia; a representation of a conventional city; a representation of an environmentally sustainable city; agricultural land; and an industrial area that includes a landfill, a wastewater treatment plant, a data center, and examples of renewable and non-renewable energy sources. Various details in the design are magnified for clarity. 

This project was initiated in August 2024, after the Potomac Science Center received a generous donation of $40,000 from an anonymous donor, specifically for this mural. It is set to be complete by October 2025!