What's Next for the Whale?
Out of the Blue, aka “The Whale,” is getting a new mural next summer! As part of a rotating mural program, the sculpture is repainted every 3–5 years, keeping the artwork current and reflective of the 9th and 9th neighborhood. The current mural, Point of Reference by Mike Murdock, has transformed the sculpture into a strong symbol of community, creativity, resilience, and harmony.
The Salt Lake City Arts Council’s Public Art Program wants your input to help shape the artist selection process and inspire the next muralist!
Phases
Review & Report
Community Insights
Thank you to our 1700+ participants for sharing their insights about what makes Out of the Blue—affectionately known as “The Whale”— and the surrounding neighborhood special! Your responses will be shared with those applying for the artist role of the repaint.
Artist application open November 24 - January 2, 2026.
Results
In 1-3 words, what does “The Whale” mean to you?
People most often describe “The Whale” as fun, iconic, and unique. Many residents see it as a playful and unexpected landmark that adds personality to the city and brings people together.
Some people also said Out of the Blue feels like a community symbol, something locals share, talk about, and feel connected to. A few mentioned that it represents pride, creativity, and acceptance.
Overall, Out of the Blue comes across as a beloved and distinctive part of the community that sparks joy and conversation.
Top 10 Words
- Fun
- Community
- Iconic
- Unique
- Colorful
- Unexpected
- Whimsical
- Quirky
- Landmark
- Out of Place
What is “Out of the Blue” about Salt Lake City?
People shared a wide range of answers, from single words to full stories. Responses highlighted Salt Lake City as a place that defies expectations while being home to diverse and accepting communities.
“It's about finding the unexpected, but in the most familiar and welcoming way possible.” - 9th & 9th Resident
- Access to Nature: Many respondents highlighted how lively the city is and how unusual it is to have such a vibrant urban center tucked between the Wasatch Mountains and the Great Salt Lake. They truly appreciate the blend of city life and easy access to the outdoors.
- Progressive Energy: Other themes include the City’s growth and progressive energy, while still recognizing its history and long-standing roots.
- Surprising Qualities: Salt Lake City consistently surprises both visitors and locals with its vibrant arts scene, urban amenities, and overall openness. In general, people appreciate how unexpected, diverse, and lively the City feels.
What makes 9th & 9th unique?
Overall, people view 9th & 9th as a walkable, creative, and welcoming neighborhood with strong community energy, unique local businesses, and memorable features, such as the Out of the Blue sculpture. There is nostalgia for its past and concern about losing its distinctiveness, but overall, it remains a cherished, lively, and welcoming part of Salt Lake City.
- Walkability and Local Businesses: People love 9th & 9th, because it’s one of the few places in Salt Lake City where you can easily walk, bike, and enjoy lots of unique, locally owned shops and restaurants.
- Community, Inclusion, and Diversity: Many describe 9th & 9th as a warm, inclusive neighborhood with a quirky, creative vibe that feels welcoming to everyone, especially LGBTQ+ residents and people who don’t fit the mainstream.
- The Whale: The sculpture is viewed as a fun and memorable symbol of the neighborhood that many people adore, although a subgroup feels it doesn’t match the area’s older character.
- History and Change: People discussed the area’s countercultural roots and how it has evolved over time, with some yearning for the old, more affordable feel. Others appreciated its continued growth and vibrancy.
- Critiques and Concerns: Some shared worries about gentrification, rising costs, and the area feeling less unique or inclusive, along with practical concerns like parking and affordability.
Demographics
What is your connection with the 9th & 9th Community?
Most people who answered this question said they spend time in 9th & 9th to shop, visit, or hang out, and a smaller share said they live or work in the neighborhood.
We used this information to review responses from people who live in the area, and their answers were very similar to the overall group, with no significant differences.
Next Steps
If you are interested in applying as an artist or following along with this project, check out the "Next Steps" phase for more information!
