SPRINGFIELD, Ore. — A new mural featuring “The Simpsons” is coming to Springfield. The real Springfield.

Series creator Matt Groening, who grew up in Portland, Oregon, told Smithsonian magazine two years ago he named Springfield after the real one in his home state.

The mural, expected to be completed in mid-September, follows several years of talks between the city and “The Simpsons” producers on commemorating the link between the real and fictitious Springfields, city spokesman Niel Laudati told The Register-Guard.

The city will soon search for a muralist to paint the artwork on the side of the Emerald Art Center. Groening said he plans to put his stamp of approval on the mural when it’s finished.

“I plan to sneak up in the middle of the night and sign the mural,” he said. “I hope I don’t get arrested.”

A print artist who works for 20th Century Fox Television is completing the original artwork that will serve as the basis for the mural. Laudati said the artwork will depict Homer lounging in a hammock, Bart climbing a tree, Marge painting, and Lisa and Maggie riding a bike.

“You can’t miss the fact that it’s a specific piece for this Springfield,” Laudati said.


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