Beatties Ford Road in Charlotte has got itself a new landmark, and it's hitting the right notes, striking a chord with the locals and passersby alike. When you get down to it, art has always had the power to bring people together, and it seems a new mural in the Historic West End is doing exactly that. Depicting three of North Carolina's own music legends — Anthony Hamilton, Fantasia, and John P. Kee — the piece is not only a visual stunner but is quickly turning into a gathering spot for the community.
It's not every day you see folks pulling their cars over to take a longer look at a piece of street art, but according to Historic West End Partners' Executive Director J'Tanya Adams, "We knew we had done the right thing as we watched cars pull over or stop in the street to see the painting." This statement, obtained by the City of Charlotte Government, gives us a glimpse into the impact the mural is beginning to have on the area.
The brain behind the art is none other than Art By Abel, and it's clear this project was painted with a larger purpose in mind. While the mural is currently drawing eyes and smartphones for its aesthetic appeal, the hope is that it will become, to put it simply, more than just a wall. More than the sum of its parts — more than paint. Historic West End Partners and the artist envision this mural as a starting point for conversations, maybe even a catalyst for change.
Though the piece is a tribute to homegrown talent, its ambitions stretch further. The musicians featured have managed to not just make their mark on the music scene but also to offer a look into the rich cultural tapestry of North Carolina. To dive deeper into the message the mural carries, you can head on over and read the full story at the City of Charlotte Government's Facebook post, where the mural has been covered in detail. Just make sure to not accidentally drive by the actual thing while you're looking it up on your mobile device.
Check out the mural, see the faces of Anthony Hamilton, Fantasia, and John P. Kee gaze back at you, and maybe, just maybe, take a moment to appreciate the art and everything it's trying to convey. For more information on the mural, visit cltgov.me/MusicianMural and see it for yourself.
