Cristie ThomasMarietta is not only home to adventurers and shoppers, but our arts community is strong and growing. With a handful of art galleries, full-time working studios, and photography spaces, creativity is proudly on display within our commercial district. The passion of Marietta’s artist community continues to come to life through downtown’s public art program, including art murals, sculptures, and more.
Recently, Marietta Main Street launched The Mural Gallery, a program focused on encouraging citizens and tourists to explore the city, learn more about the city’s history, and create memorable moments of discovery all through public mural installations throughout downtown. Murals will be installed on a rotating basis, creating a streetscape gallery for both locals and tourists to adore.
“Public Art is a vital piece of downtown revitalization, and Marietta is lucky to have the volume and caliber of talent that we do with our local artists. The community has responded very positively to our murals thus far, and we hope for that excitement to continue,” says Cristie Thomas, Executive Director of Marietta Main Street.
Currently, the Public Art Committee of Marietta Main Street claims two mural installations to their name, both designed with love by Just A Jar Design Press on Front Street in downtown Marietta. The first mural, based on a hand-carved depiction of a sternwheeler, was installed on the side of The Cook’s Shop on Front Street in November 2016. The second, and most recent, was installed on the Butler Street wall of Top Drawer Furniture & Design Studio in July 2017. The most recent mural installation features historic photographs of Marietta and encourages visitors to snap a selfie in front of the murals as a way of “picturing” themselves in history!
Marietta Main Street’s Mural Gallery Program will include an Artwork Library, a collection of juried artwork submitted by local artists that honors the place and the history of Marietta. Property owners and business owners interested in contributing to The Mural Gallery can access The Artwork Library with the intent of installing a mural on their building. Local artists are encouraged to submit their work for consideration directly to Marietta Main Street. More information can be found here. Marietta Main Street continues to accept donations to fund the Mural Gallery Program and other public art, historic preservation, downtown beautification, and economic development programs – donations can be made here.