Public Art Mural Unveiling

AUGUSTA, GA (Al Dallas) - The City of Augusta and The Greater Augusta Arts Council, named Public Art Agency for the City of Augusta in 2012, are pleased to announce the unveiling and completion of the public art mural on the Rosa T. Beard Memorial Bridge at the 15^th Street Overpass at Wrighstboro Rd. Monday, December 23.  The community and media are invited to attend this celebration of the beautiful art produced by veteran mural artists Lucy and Jace McTier.  The McTiers began painting the mural in October of this year and were assisted by numerous area artists and volunteers.

The project was funded through a portion of a $1.8 million community challenge grant awarded to Augusta from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development.  The concept of the design was based on community input gathered at public input meetings, in the 15^th Street Corridor held over a six month period. Hundreds of residents from the nearby community were involved in the discussions of the subject matter that would be depicted. Included in the mural design are: the T.W. Josey High School mascot – a majestic Eagle; a young couple dreaming of their bright future; a young child imagining his future career; a Georgia peach tree; an American flag; and beautiful, safe green space being enjoyed by community residents.

Augusta Mayor Deke Copenhaver commented, “Seeing this project come to fruition warms my heart.  As a strong supporter of the arts and neighborhood revitalization and beautification I’m extremely excited for what this mural represents.  Having gotten to know the McTiers over the last several months, I am pleased with their artistic ability and their passion for our community.  I feel strongly that this will help spark more and more public art projects throughout our city and I look forward to working with organizations like the Greater Augusta Arts Council to make this happen.”

A press conference will be held at 11:00 AM at the site of the mural on Monday, December 23, where the Honorable Deke Copenhaver, Mayor of Augusta, will be present alongside the artists and other city leaders to unveil this new display of public art. Parking will be available in front of the Georgia Regents University College of Dental Medicine, adjacent to R.A. Dent Blvd.