KEEP YOUR EYE ON THE RED BRICK.
Updated: Feb 4, 2020
LEADERSHIP ANDERSON CLASS 36 ANNOUNCES PROJECT TO SUPPORT REVITALIZATION OF DOWNTOWN ANDERSON WITH COMMISSIONED MURAL
Anderson, SC (February 3, 2020) —KEEP YOUR EYE ON THE RED BRICK.
Leadership Anderson Class 36 has publicly announced Mural on Main, a project designed to connect the community through the power of art, by installing a mural in downtown Anderson. This venture comes as a result of the 10-month leadership program’s class participants being charged with selecting and pursuing a project that will yield a positive, everlasting impact on the community.
The mural will be fixated to the west facing wall of Orr Street in downtown Anderson, completely visible to all passersby of Main Street. Commissioned by local artist Herman Keith, Jr., the mural will be produced using a parachute-cloth technique and made up of 5x5 panels, measuring 1,700 square feet when assembled. Keith’s passion and ability creates art that transforms beautiful downtown areas and serves as a landmark of which the community can be proud.
Class members cited research studies by Americans for the Arts that evidence the power of murals and other forms of public art to support economic growth, promote social cohesion and cultural understanding, and encourage attachment and sense of belonging within a community. Combining these kinds of evidence-based results with the City of Anderson’s existing Shock the Block plans, Mural on Main has garnered the attention and support of city officials. The vibrant, intricate design is dedicated largely to denoting landmarks and cultivating historical understanding of Anderson County and the Electric City. Assistant City Manager, Andrew Stickland, voiced the city’s support of this project, “Mural on Main will add depth to the rich public art offerings throughout our community. Leadership Anderson’s vision gives us the opportunity to implement an important project identified in our downtown master plan—Shock This Block. We look forward to partnering with nearby businesses and property owners to supplement this exciting project.”
Leadership Anderson Class 36 requests the support of community members and organizations to bring this project to reality. In addition to financial support, the 5’x5’ square panels will be painted by schools, community partners, and project sponsors. This technique provides the opportunity for individuals and organizations to participate and, quite literally, leave their mark on Downtown Anderson. For additional details, including sponsorship information, visit the project website at www.muralonmain.com. With public support, Mural on Main will be completed by June 2020.
Leadership Anderson, founded in 1984, is a 10-month leadership development program devoted to strengthening and dedicating our community leaders. Over 800 local leaders have graduated from the program and continue their commitment to the growth, development and prosperity of Anderson County.
