It doesn't look like much now, but to artists in Orillia, a cement wall on the Highway 12 underpass will soon become a colourful masterpiece.

Located along Orillia’s Old Rail Trail, near Memorial Avenue, the roughly 100 ft. long tunnel will have a mural on both sides.  It's all part of the Orillia Street Art Project, organized by the Orillia Youth Centre.

"We’re looking at some themes around walking, hiking, running, walking dogs, biking, just an active piece,” says Kevin Gangloff, director of the youth centre. “Just that look of the trails, we're trying to carry the trail through the tunnel, because you get into a concrete jungle in the tunnel."

Two local artists are leading the way, but it's up to young aspiring artists to add their own creative touch and complete the mural.

"I think it's wonderful that we can breathe life into something as simple as a tunnel and bring the youth out and let them experience something that's such a large colourful artistic piece," says artist Paul Baxter.

“I think when you can teach the youth these things, it's a bonus because they then grow up knowing a bit of culture and they can express it in their own ways, in a proper manner, without going out at night and tagging a wall," says artist Xavier Fernandes.

Experience is not necessary and everyone is welcome to pick up a can and help paint. 

"I think it's great that people get to express themselves, it's a great opportunity," says 13-year-old Korbain Clark.

"I’ve never done anything like this before, I just think it’s a great experience, I want to get into the arts, so I’m glad I showed up today," says 15-year-old Sabrina Taplin.

The mural will likely take several days and a few hundred cans of spray paint, but trail users are already excited.

"I think it will be a good destination point, I think people will want to check it out, see what's going on, maybe a enough to get people out on the trails a little bit more,” says Orillia resident Robb MacDonald.

People looking to contribute to the mural can contact the Orillia Youth Centre at 705-325-8082.