Last year, Mecklenburg County received American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funding – distributed by the Virginia Tourism Corporation (VTC) – with the aim of revitalizing tourism in the region following the economic downturn caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. As part of this initiative, Mecklenburg Tourism embarked on a project to enhance the county’s appeal by commissioning interactive murals in each of the county’s six towns.
To facilitate this endeavor, a dedicated mural committee was established, comprising representatives from each town. Through a competitive bidding process, Girls Who Paint Murals (GWP) was selected to conceptualize and execute murals that not only adorned the towns but also served as engaging attractions for visitors. Mecklenburg Tourism collaborated closely with each town, granting them creative autonomy to select mural themes that resonated with their unique identity and heritage. However, a key stipulation was that each mural had to incorporate interactive elements, ensuring an immersive experience for visitors.
The resulting “Mural Mania” has transformed Mecklenburg County into a vibrant destination, with the new works of art forming the cornerstone of an upcoming mural trail. This trail promises to take visitors on a captivating journey through the county’s diverse towns, offering them the opportunity to explore, appreciate, and interact with these artistic expressions. Plans are underway to augment the trail with digital enhancements, enriching the visitor experience and fostering engagement with the county’s cultural tapestry.
Check out each completed mural below!
Town of South Hill
Town of Boydton
Town of Clarksville
Town of Brodnax
Town of Chase City
Town of La Crosse
Inspired by the Others
Encouraged by the transformative impact witnessed across the county, a property owner in Clarksville enlisted the services of the same distinguished artists responsible for the creation of the six murals throughout Mecklenburg County. This collaborative endeavor not only adds to the aesthetic allure of Clarksville but also symbolizes a collective commitment to fostering cultural enrichment and community pride. As a result, Clarksville now stands as an even more vibrant community within the region!
Undoubtedly, the success of this endeavor will catalyze similar creative efforts in communities across the county, heralding a vibrant transformation towards a more visually captivating and culturally enriched Mecklenburg County.
Virginia Main Street 