Did you know that public art can increase foot traffic by up to 30% and nearly 90% of attendees at arts and culture events, like public mural festivals, say these experiences enhance their appreciation for the community.?
As a muralist, I’ve seen firsthand how public art transforms spaces and creates a lasting impact on the people who experience it. Murals in Chamblee, Georgia, part of the larger Metro Atlanta art scene, serve as powerful tools for connection and community building. They bring people together, tell unique stories, and can even boost local economies.
When I was invited to participate in the Babe Walls Mural Festival in November 2024, I knew it was an incredible opportunity to contribute to a vibrant celebration of public art in Chamblee, Georgia. This festival brought together over 30 talented artists to create 20 murals along the Chamblee Rail Trail, turning it into an open-air gallery for the community to enjoy. You can learn more about the event’s mission and impact on Chamblee’s official Babe Walls page.
For my mural, I wanted to create a bold and imaginative piece that would both enhance the space and spark conversations about the role of public art in shaping our shared community spaces.
In this article, I’ll share what makes public art so important, from boosting local economies to building a sense of community—and how my work at Babe Walls is part of that story. I hope this write-up will offer a fresh perspective on the power of murals to enrich the spaces we all share.
Why Mural Art in Metro-Atlanta Matters: More Than Just Decoration
Public art celebrates the stories, values, and creativity that define a community. As a custom mural artist for public spaces, I’m proud to contribute to Atlanta’s thriving public art scene, which boasts over $22 million in assets and plays a key role in Georgia’s $1.27 billion arts and culture economy. The Babe Walls Mural Festival is just one example of how public art strengthens communities across Chamblee and Metro Atlanta.
During my time at Babe Walls, I saw how murals spark conversations and inspire connection while reflecting the local culture. Organized by the Babe Walls team, the event set out to amplify the voices of women and non-binary artists while fostering collaboration and creativity through public art. As described by ArtsATL, Babe Walls was a much-needed women-centered mural event, celebrating the power of inclusive storytelling and artistic expression. This mission set the tone for the entire festival. Each mural told a story through bold colors, intricate designs, and meaningful themes. Murals by Metro Atlanta artists like those featured at Babe Walls help highlight the region’s commitment to promoting vibrant public spaces.
Art like this beautifies a space, and helps shape part of its identity. Studies have shown that communities with strong public art programs report higher levels of pride and engagement among residents. For example, a report from Americans for the Arts highlights how public murals can strengthen social ties and give people a greater sense of ownership over shared spaces.
One of the most meaningful moments during the festival came from the people living across the street from the Rail Trail. They would often stop by while we worked, expressing their gratitude and sharing how much they appreciated what we were doing for their neighborhood. “We’ll enjoy this art every day,” one neighbor said. Those moments of connection and gratitude are the essence of why public art matters, it’s about creating something that enriches people’s lives and gives them pride in the place they call home.
The Economic Impact of Public Art in Chamblee, GA: A Win-Win for the Community
Public art has a unique ability to breathe new life into a community, turning underutilized areas into vibrant spaces that attract both residents and visitors. Beyond its cultural significance, public art also brings measurable economic benefits.
At Babe Walls in Chamblee, I saw firsthand how businesses along the Rail Trail thrived, with businesses along the Rail Trail experiencing increased foot traffic from visitors eager to meet artists and view the artwork being created in real time. Events like these create a ripple effect, driving spending at nearby shops, cafes, and restaurants. One standout example was Block and Drum distillery, which hosted an "industry night" for the artists involved. The event became a gathering point for neighbors, festival-goers, and creatives, exemplifying how public art directly supports local businesses and brings the community together. According to a study by Americans for the Arts, public art projects can boost business revenue by up to 20% in surrounding areas.
The impact goes beyond daily commerce. Murals and other public art installations contribute to rising property values, making neighborhoods more desirable to residents and businesses alike. Studies show that vibrant public spaces can increase property values by up to 15%, creating long-term economic benefits for the entire community. Projects like Babe Walls in Chamblee demonstrate how public murals can boost foot traffic and business revenue, contributing to the vibrancy of Metro Atlanta.
For cities and businesses, investing in public art is a strategic move to foster growth and economic vitality. By drawing people in and encouraging them to engage with their surroundings, public art offers returns that extend far beyond its initial creation.
How Public Murals Shape Culture in Chamblee and Beyond
Public art has a unique way of weaving itself into the cultural fabric of a community, reflecting its values, identity, and aspirations, it adds to the scenery and becomes a part of the story.
At the Babe Walls Mural Festival, this cultural impact was tangible. Each muralist brought their unique style and perspective, adding layers of meaning to the Chamblee Rail Trail. For my mural, I was given a four-sided column to design, and I chose to celebrate creativity, local culture, and a touch of whimsy through four distinct cat-themed artworks. Each side of the column told a unique story:
- An Atlanta Cat, featuring the letters "ATL" in the background with a peach around its face, tying it to the identity of the City of Atlanta.
- An Underwater Cat, gazing at two fish floating above, adding a sense of wonder and tranquility.
- A Cowboy Cat, complete with a hat, bolo tie, and boots, nodding to playful Americana.
- An Outer Space Cat, donning a space helmet with stars and planets above, sparking imagination and curiosity..
It was inspiring to witness visitors interact with the murals, sharing interpretations and engaging in conversations about the art and the stories behind it. These moments reinforced for me the transformative role public art plays in connecting people and shaping the narratives of the spaces we share. View more of my mural projects in the Atlanta area here.
Public Art FAQs: Everything You Need to Know
1. What are the benefits of public art?
In my experience, public art creates vibrant community spaces. It also boosts foot traffic, fosters cultural identity, and enhances local pride. It can even drive economic growth, with businesses near public art seeing revenue increases of up to 20%.
2. How do I find the right artist for a public art project?
Start by researching local muralists whose styles align with your vision. Review their portfolios and client testimonials to assess their experience with large-scale projects. It’s also helpful to meet with the artist to discuss their process and your goals.
3. How can I ensure the mural will last?
Longevity starts with proper preparation and materials. A professional muralist will use high-quality exterior paints and apply protective coatings to safeguard against weather and UV damage. Regular maintenance, like gentle cleaning, will help preserve the mural’s vibrancy.
4. What makes murals different from other types of public art?
Murals are uniquely immersive, turning walls into canvases that engage viewers on a grand scale. They’re versatile, blending seamlessly into urban, residential, and natural landscapes, while also offering a dynamic storytelling element.
5. Can public art projects qualify for funding?
Yes! Many public art initiatives are supported by grants, sponsorships, or municipal programs. Organizations like Americans for the Arts provide helpful resources for securing funding. Crowdfunding and partnerships with local businesses can also be effective.
Pro Tip:
Interested in commissioning a mural? Contact Brianna Gardocki for a consultation and bring your vision to life with a custom mural tailored to your community.
The Power of Public Art: Final Thoughts
Public art has the power to enrich communities in countless ways, from boosting local economies to fostering cultural pride. As I witnessed during the Babe Walls Mural Festival, murals inspire conversations, spark connection, and leave lasting legacies in the spaces they inhabit. If you're inspired to bring this magic to your own community, here are a few tips to get started:
Define Your Goals
- Clarify what you hope to achieve with your mural.
- Are you looking to attract visitors, celebrate your community’s culture, or revitalize an overlooked space?
- The purpose will guide the design process and make your vision more focused.
- Example: A mural for a farmer’s market might feature a vibrant fruit-and-vegetable theme to highlight the local produce, while a mural for a public library could celebrate the joy of reading with whimsical illustrations of books and storytelling.
Choose the Perfect Space
- Selecting the right location is key to maximizing a mural’s impact.
- High-traffic areas like busy intersections, parks, or retail districts will naturally draw more eyes.
- Consider the dimensions, visibility, and condition of the wall.
- Does the space get ample sunlight or shade? Is the surface smooth or textured?
Collaborate with a Local Muralist
- Work with an experienced muralist who can tailor the design to your community’s story.
- A skilled artist will bring creativity and technical expertise, ensuring the final artwork resonates with the people who interact with it.
- They can also provide practical guidance on the process, from preparing the wall to selecting weather-resistant materials for long-lasting results.
Invest in the Experience
- Public art is more than just decoration; it’s an investment in community growth, connection, and beauty.
- Involve stakeholders, from local businesses to residents, in the planning and design phases to ensure the project reflects the area’s identity.
Are you a local business or community leader in Metro Atlanta looking to enrich your space with public art? Let’s create something extraordinary together. Contact me today.
