This year marks a major milestone for Odney — our 40th anniversary. To celebrate four decades of serving our community, we wanted to give back. We commissioned a vibrant new mural in downtown Bismarck that honors the history, culture, and spirit of the region we're proud to call home. 

Designed by Odney graphic designer Cecil Roth and brought to life by renowned local artist Melissa Gordon, the mural pays homage to Bismarck's origin story, when and who it was named for, with regional characters added to give it a bright and colorful vibe. 

"We wanted to create something meaningful, fun, and a worthy addition to the collection of other great street murals that decorate our city," says Roth. 

The artwork prominently features the year 1872, honoring the founding of Bismarck, and includes symbolic imagery that reflects North Dakota's heritage and character. You'll spot German Chancellor Otto von Bismarck, for whom the city was named; the western meadowlark, our state bird; a flickertail; and a teddy bear paying tribute to President Theodore Roosevelt. A walleye and white-tailed deer round out the design, representing the state's natural beauty and abundant wildlife. 

"This mural not only marks Odney's milestone anniversary but also stands as a colorful tribute to the community and the state we call home," says Kyle Niess, Odney CEO and partner. 

You can see the artwork in Zimmerman's Furniture Clearance Center's West Parking lot at 201 E Main Ave. We hope this mural brings joy to our community for years to come and serves as a lasting reminder of what makes Bismarck-Mandan such a special place to live and work. 

About the Artist 

Melissa Gordon has been creating art since selling her first commissioned work at just 12 years old. She has won numerous awards for her realistic renderings and has works in private collections across the country. Gordon is a founding member of Bismarck Downtown Artists Cooperative and was appointed to the North Dakota Council on the Arts in 2015 by Governor Jack Dalrymple. In 2016, she was named the Bismarck Arts and Galleries Citation Award winner.