Visual Art

Local Artist’s Bill Murray Tribute Gets Big Attention

Steve Freuhauf |

Starting out as a privately commissioned project for a family friend, a Bill Murray tribute piece has turned into quite the conversation starter for Eau Claire comic artist Mark Lone. Jason Held came to Lone in early 2012 with the idea of putting together a collage of classic Murray characters from the actor’s illustrious career. While most private pieces are usually kept solely by those purchasing the piece, Held said the artist could submit it elsewhere. About a month ago, Lone found such an opportunity. He was contacted by Public Works, an organization based out of San Francisco, asking for his work to be included in their Aug. 8 gallery show, “The Murray Affair,” an ode to the man who brought Dr. Venkman to life. While Lone hasn’t seen the piece make its rounds, he said he’s heard there’s some attention gathering around it. Since word about the gallery has spread, The Huffington Post has featured his work online and there’s even talk of Time Magazine, TMZ, and Entertainment Weekly all using it as well. But Lone said all he’s worried about is whether Murray himself likes the piece or not. To see more work by Lone, check out his blog at marklone.blogspot.com.