POP OF COLOR AND CULTURE

rtists and community leaders have learned how to join hands in working together toward the revitalization of their communities by harnessing the power of art murals. These colorful expressions, often seen on downtown brick exteriors, roadside barns, and even farmland silos, have been contributors to fostering community engagement, refurbishing buildings, and stimulating local economies. A

Here, a sampling of a few Southwest Georgia murals that are road-trip worthy. Grab a friend, pack some snacks, and hit the road. Don’t forget to post a few fun selfies and use the hashtag #SWGAmurals.

COLQUITT Above: The Spirit of the Farmer: 164 E. Main Street Canadian artist Charlie Johnson depicts a South Georgia farmer inspecting his crop of peanuts. The mural wraps around all four sides of the 100-foot tall, fully functional silo with images of cotton, corn and peanuts. Bottom right: Depot Scene N. Cuthbert Street

CUTHBERT Above and left: The Magnolia Alley: 74 Peachtree Street Dedicated in March 2019, the mural was a joint effort between the city of Cuthbert and Andrew College to revitalize downtown. Artist Christ Johnson captured the spirit of Cuthbert history and culture.

PHOTO BY MELISSA JUNE

BAINBRIDGE Above: Mad Rose: 402 N. West Street

In 2019, artist Ridge Harper brought proprietor, Allison Cantley's dreams of an angel wing mural to life in vivid color. The mural instantly became a destination for stunning photographs.

SHELLMAN

Left and next page, bottom right:

Silos: Corner of Payne Street and

Railroad Street. Featuring the image of Shellman native and songwriter Boudleaux

Bryant, artist Chris Johnson captures the agriculture, art, and culture of Shellman in his silo murals. The series of art, painted between 2017 and 2018, has fostered engagement within the community.

ALBANY Above: Bread House: 520 North Jefferson Street. Artist Mark Dennard captured the strength and beauty of the Albany community before the storms of 2017.

Bottom: Broad Ave. Underpass: Near the intersection of North Broadway Street and East Broad Avenue in downtown Albany. The street wall was revitalized with this work of art by Cameron Malphrus. Created to inspire a gateway of beauty into East Albany, the “Bridge the Community” mural was completed in 2015. ∞