Sunnyside Shines Bright with New Mural

May 17, 2024

Canton's public art initiative shows no signs of slowing down as a bright new mural is unveiled in Sunnyside.

In the heart of Canton's Sunnyside neighborhood, a splash of color adorns the south-facing wall of the Village on Sunnyside shopping center. A vibrant new mural serves as a testament to the spirit of the community, as well as Canton’s commitment to the arts.

A Shared Vision.

Seeking to compliment public spaces with art that reflects the heritage of Sunnyside, the Canton Cultural Arts Commission put out a call for artists back in 2022. Village on Sunnyside property owner, Bill Kent, generously donated the wall for the mural, demonstrating a shared commitment to enriching the community. After a meticulous selection process, Graham Carraway of J. Graham Studios, with the assistance of fellow artist Gus Reynolds, was selected to transform the 60' by 12.5' wall into a vibrant representation of Sunnyside.

Artist assistant Gus Reynolds, artist Graham Carraway, Cultural Arts Commission member Haley Whyte, and building owner Bill Kent attend the mural's Ribbon Cutting Ceremony

Local Inspiration.

Drawing inspiration from the flora of the region, the delicate pink of blooming azaleas surround the word "Sunnyside", which takes center stage and is rendered in gold and yellow. A magpie, wings outstretched, anchors the composition, symbolizing the boundless potential of the community.

Spotlight on Sunnyside.

The significance of the mural extends beyond its aesthetic appeal. Overlooking the mural is Harmon Park, which was recently renovated with the addition of a mini-pitch soccer field. The refurbishment of Harmon Park, now complete with the backdrop of the new Sunnyside mural, exemplifies Canton's commitment to progress and community revitalization while celebrating Sunnyside's rich history.

The newly-renovated Harmon Park featuring the Sunnyside Mural as its backdrop

Telling Sunnyside's Story.

At the mural’s ribbon cutting ceremony on May 13, representatives from the City of Canton, Sunnyside residents, and members of the Canton Cultural Arts Commission gathered to celebrate this new addition to the Sunnyside landscape. Jamie Foreman, owner of Menagerie on Main and member of the Cultural Arts Commission, expressed the community's excitement, calling the mural a canvas for storytelling and a reflection of Sunnyside's spirit.

The Sunnyside mural stands as a shining example of the power of public art to transform spaces and cultivate a sense of belonging. As you Explore Canton, be sure to add it to your itinerary! The mural is located at 565 Marietta Rd, Canton, GA.

To learn more about public art in Canton, click HERE.

Check out this video about the Sunnyside Mural!

Author

Michael Loizou

Digital Content Specialist; City of Canton, GA

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