McCallie Walls Mural Project

Rondell Crier , a resident artist through the Creative Placemaking program is currently participating in the McCallie Walls Mural Project facilitated by Kevin Bate. The goal of this project is to create the world’s first drive-through art gallery.

To encourage community participation and artistic development among young people, Rondell recruited a team of  youth to help him on the mural project.  All of the creative design is managed by him; however, the youth are able to engage in the mural making process through painting, taping, and planning.

One Saturday when the team was working on the wall, a mother and son (James) apporached the team to talk about the mural project.  James and his mother inquired about the piece and James voiced an interest in helping out with the mural in the future.  Now, he is officially part of the team and is excited to participate in his first mural project.  He is an aspiring artist and is looking forward to pursuing a career as a professional visual artist in the future.

The mural is still a work in progress but should be completed with in the next month (weather permitting).  We are so proud of Rondell and the young artists for contributing to the beautification efforts within the larger Chattanooga community.  Building strong leadership and civic engagement skills is key to becoming a successful adult in the future.  The mentorship created amongst the youth and Rondell is great example of how to change lives and build community.

For more information about the McCallie Walls Mural Project please visit  https://www.facebook.com/McCallieWalls, http://www.nooga.com/166300/progress-report-the-mccallie-walls-project/, & http://www.timesfreepress.com/news/2014/jun/02/mccallie-murals-ho-hum-drive-becoming-inspiring-sc/.

Last but not least, check out the shoutout Usher gave to the McCallie Walls Mural Project on Instagram earlier this July. This photo however of Kevin Bate’s mural on Glass Street. http://www.nooga.com/167075/usher-gives-shoutout-to-mccallie-walls-mural-project/.