NORTH PARK (NEWS 8) – A quirky image of a fury character riding a dinosaur has graced the side of the former Wang’s restaurant for years.
Soon, Target will be taking over the building on University Avenue and is set to paint over the local landmark, but some North Park residents are hoping they can dig up support to save it.
The 'WEENosauras Rex,' as it is called, has been a popular sight since 2012, was created by Mark Paul Deren.
“I think that it’s an integral part of North Park. They sent me an email asking how do you feel about the mural being painted over by Target. I was like, ‘wait, what do you mean?’”
The New York based artist goes by Madsteez. He was originally asked to do the mural by a local magazine. At the time of the commission, the building was owned by the restaurant Wang’s, which has since closed.
A spokesperson for Target told News 8 they are considering a new mural that will be influenced by local perspectives.
As we prepare to open a store in North Park, we’re considering a new mural for the store’s building that will be influenced by local perspectives and will represent the spirit of the neighborhood. To do that, we’ve connected with North Park Main Street and the North Park Planning Committee, and have reached out to local artists for their input. In the coming weeks, we’ll issue a Request for Proposal (RFP) so interested artists can participate. We’re still in the early stages of this project, and will continue to take local partners as we move through the process. It’s common for us to commission a local artist to create artwork in or on our stores as we open new locations across the country, and we partner closely with local leaders to ensure our buildings fit in with the fabric of the community.
Jacque DeBuse, Communications
“I feel like that is part of the neighborhood and actually speaks to the community,” said Mark.
News of 'WEENosauras Rex’s' demise is upsetting to some North Park residents. Others welcome change.
A petition on change.org has already gathered 400 signatures.
If you would like to help save the 'WEENosauras Rex' mural, you can sign the online petition here.
Some of the footage in this video story was shot using a GoPro camera.