Original artwork is always interesting and NC roadside attraction murals certainly fit that bill. Whether they are commissioned by a municipality or promoting a small business, murals tell a story and make you want to learn and explore more. They’re also simply beautiful to look at . . .
Greetings from Sylva Mural
Ward Plumbing, Heating & Air, 548 Mill St, Sylva, NC
Commissioned in 2018, the downtown Sylva mural uses a 1940’s postcard theme to display much of the area’s history. The mural is brightly colored and filled with local imagery such as trout in the Tuckasegee River, a pickup truck navigating the Blue Ridge Parkway, the Jackson Paper mill, railroad, the iconic Jackson County Courthouse and even woven Cherokee baskets. This NC roadside attraction mural measures 22’ x 53’ (7 m x 16 m) and is located on the east facing outside wall of the Ward Plumbing building. This mural was the Sylva Public Art Committee’s inaugural project. The artist, Aaron Harris, beat out 30 other applicants for the coveted commission. On a side note, Harris fell off his scaffolding halfway through the project and broke his elbow. He continued to work using his off hand to make sure his work was completed on schedule. That’s dedication!
Oliver, the World's Largest Tobacco Hornworm
Rich’s Gym, 15 W 4th St, Wendell, NC
In the heart of downtown Wendell is one of the more unique NC roadside attraction murals. What started as a project to encourage local businesses to keep their buildings freshly painted evolved into numerous murals sprinkled throughout downtown Wendell. Oliver, the World’s Largest Tobacco Hornworm mural, was painted by local artist Michael Brown and stands as a tribute to the long rich history of tobacco growing in the region. The mural is located on the east side of Rich’s Gym across from a large empty dirt lot. Oliver is named after Oliver Wendell Holmes, Sr. for whom the town derived it’s name in 1903. It’s said a local school teacher suggested the name Wendell in honor of his favorite poet. During different times of the year Oliver can be seen wearing different hats reflecting the current season or holiday.
Historic Downtown Mount Airy Mural
129 Franklin St, Mt Airy, NC
The historic downtown Mount Airy mural is one of the more colorful of the NC roadside attraction murals. The mural was painted by a popular local artist, Madeline Matanick, whose art specializes in flowers and bright, expressive colors that reflect her joyful personality. This mural is part of a larger effort from the Mount Airy Downtown, Inc. which has an active program soliciting “street murals, sculptures, and functional art works”. The result has been a revitalization of Mount Airy into something more than just Andy Griffith’s hometown, though the Mayberry vibe is still fantastic. Be sure to check out the other artwork around downtown including the Whittling Wall, the painted guitars and loads of other murals including the iconic 5¢ Coca-Cola billboard.
Town of Wendell Train Mural
100 W 3rd St, Wendell, NC 27591
As of 2022 there are ten murals sprinkled throughout the town of Wendell, NC. One of our favorites is the “train mural” that sits on the corner of 3rd St and Cypress St, on the east side of the Farley Accounting & Tax Service office building. Created by Peggy Lee Laughery as a tribute to her favorite quote from the town’s namesake, Oliver Wendell Holmes, Sr., “small town, big charm”. This NC roadside attraction mural perfectly encapsulates the legacy of small town North Carolina but also provides a wonderful nostalgic reminder of days long lost.
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