It's a Vibe! Discover The Downtown Canton Parking Deck Mural

When it came time for the City of Canton to design and build a new parking deck, they did so with not only increased parking and sustainability as goals (the deck is home to a solar canopy and 10 electric charging stations) but also with placemaking top of mind.

The capital project included a large wall meant specifically to fulfill the city's Roadmap to Success initiatives of placemaking and public art. When the deck opened to the public in fall 2022, the city and the Canton Cultural Arts Commission got to work on a call for artists. The large-scale project was awarded to Atlanta-area artist Lauren Stumberg. Her stunning mural in the heart of the historic district was revealed this spring and is called "It's a Vibe." The work symbolizes the collective safety of neighborhoods; climbing toward goals; transformation; and community, plus it celebrates the growing arts and culture vibe in Canton. The mural also includes a nod to the Etowah River that flows through Canton.

A reflection of the human experience and a beacon of connective energy, this vibrant placemaking project can be seen for blocks as it enhances the landscape and inspires happiness, both vital objectives of successful placemaking and public art programs. Canton is proud that this professional artwork strengthens downtown's creative identity, visibly tells a local story of inclusivity and forward direction, and sparks excitement against the backdrop of well-preserved project reveals that strategic — not necessarily large — investment in placemaking can literally paint a picture of inspiration for residents and visitors alike.

This article was featured in the Historic Canton magazine. Read more.

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