July 30th, 2020 – SUNY New Paltz student Meghan O’Reilly, who painted the oyster life cycle mural at the Islip Shellfish Hatchery in East Islip last year, is creating two murals for the new Town of Islip Animal Shelter.

Meghan recently met with DEC Commissioner Martin Bellew to review for approval, her design ideas for the murals that will be displayed in the main entrance of the new shelter.

“We are delighted to welcome Meghan back to the Town of Islip,” said Islip Supervisor Angie Carpenter. “Her colorful artwork is a wonderful addition to our Town facilities, and we look forward to unveiling this piece, which will be permanently displayed at our new shelter,” said Supervisor Carpenter.

“Meghan is exceptionally creative. She designed and painted a visually beautiful and educational mural at the Town’s Hatchery last summer,” said Islip DEC Commissioner, Martin Bellew. “This year, we are again benefitting from her exceptional creativity, as she is now creating two murals for the animal shelter. These murals will feature dogs and cats with an interactive and charming element that will draw families and individuals alike to come visit our new space to increase the potential for adoptions,” said Commissioner Bellew.

The new animal shelter is currently under construction and is planned to be completed by early 2021. Residents looking to adopt can visit the Islip Animal Shelter located at 210 Denver Ave in Bay Shore.