New Mural Taking Shape at Topeka Zoo

The zoo's latest artwork aims to raise awareness about plastic pollution and its impact on wildlife.

Apr. 15, 2026 at 11:18pm

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An abstract, impressionistic photograph in soft, warm tones depicting a close-up view of a bald eagle's eye, surrounded by a blurred background of ocean waves and plastic debris, conceptually representing the environmental impact of plastic waste.A new mural at the Topeka Zoo aims to raise awareness about the devastating impact of plastic pollution on wildlife and the environment.Topeka Today

The Topeka Zoo has commissioned artist Shane from Abstract Dissent to create a new mural outside the zoo's front entrance. The mural will focus on raising awareness about plastic pollution in the oceans and the impact it has on different environments and animals. Despite some challenges from high winds, Shane is making progress on the mural and is excited about the close-up portrait of a bald eagle he is painting.

Why it matters

The new mural is part of the zoo's efforts to educate the public about environmental issues like plastic pollution that threaten wildlife. As a popular community attraction, the zoo's murals can help spread awareness and inspire action on these important conservation topics.

The details

Shane has been working on the mural for the past several days, dealing with 30-mph wind gusts that have made it difficult to achieve the smooth fades and details he wants. Despite the weather challenges, he is enjoying the process, especially painting the close-up portrait of a bald eagle. The mural is located outside the zoo's front entrance and is intended to highlight the problem of plastic pollution in the oceans and its impacts on different ecosystems and animal species.

  • Shane began work on the mural the prior Tuesday.
  • He expects the mural to be completed in a couple of days.

The players

Shane

An artist with Abstract Dissent who was commissioned to create the new mural at the Topeka Zoo.

Topeka Zoo

A popular community attraction in Topeka, Kansas that is hosting the new mural to raise awareness about plastic pollution and its impact on wildlife.

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What they’re saying

“We're getting like 30-mile-per-hour gusts, so you know, when I am trying to get really nice fades. It'll go up, straight, down, right, it'll go all over, and mess my whole piece up. So, just got to adjust and try to get through it.”

— Shane, Artist

“I am stoked about the bald eagle just because I like the close-up portraits, so I am having fun with this one despite the wind.”

— Shane, Artist

What’s next

Shane has also been assigned to paint a mural in the new tigers exhibit, currently under construction at the Topeka Zoo.

The takeaway

The Topeka Zoo's new mural project is using public art to raise awareness about the critical environmental issue of plastic pollution and its impact on wildlife. Despite some weather challenges, the artist is creating an impactful piece that will educate and inspire the local community.