Community Murals:

​My passion for public artwork has grown from my roots in education.  I accompany much of my private mural work with community engagement projects.  These projects incorporate “community painting days” as I work with local organizations and partnerships to work alongside volunteers on public art.  I find there is a greater power and impact to murals through sharing ownership with the individuals who interact with the paintings on a daily basis.  While I do finish each mural to a professional standard at the end of each project, I do engage the volunteers in painting sessions that are comfortable for any skill level.  I hope that this movement continues to gain momentum as we enhance a passion for public artwork in Southwest Virginia and abroad.

The River’s Edge North Project involved more than 90 volunteers to assist with the mural.  The piece which is 380 feet long was completed in partnership with Roanoke Outside, Fleet Feet, RubAbout Sports, Virginia Tech Medical School, Carilion and the Roanoke Arts Commission.  Please see the links below to learn more about this exciting project for the Roanoke community.

“A Star City in Motion,” Mural by Jon Murrill 2023   Press Releases & Information Page

“River’s Edge Mural Ceremony” RVTV Video and Release

The New Castle mural was funded by the Virginia Tourism Grant.  This project was created in conjunction with the establishment of a new farmer’s market and community initiative.  With over 65 volunteers the mural was celebrated with hundreds in attendance.  The community not only painted but also named each of the featured wildlife characters.  Accompanied by merchandise of the imagery, this mural is central to the growing culture for arts and creatives in Craig County.

​

The Northwest Mural collaboration between artists Thiago Valdi and Jon Murrill was a great success.  The featured a portrait and concept celebrating a local social worker and her role in her neighborhood.  Partnering with Roanoke Sister Cities and Humble Hustle Organization this mural was completed in two days and ended with a neighborhood reveal attended by over 100 residents.  See links below for more information.

Thiago Valdi and Jon Murrill RVTV collaboration (video link here)
WDBJ7 Press release (Link Here)
WFXR Press release (Link Here)

The Roanoke River Greenways Mural Project was a partnership between artist Jon Murrill and IHeatSE Roanoke.  This project featured 3 murals along the greenway and involved more than 60 volunteers over a 3 month period.  The project also won the Roanoke “Neighborhood Arts Award” for public art project in 2022.  For more information see the links below.

“SE Greenways Gateway Project” Murals by Jon Murrill and IHeartSE

The Martinsville Project funded by the city of Martinsville celebrated the local wildlife, flowers and people of Martinsville.  Over 40 volunteers participated in the project which became one of the first large scale murals in the city.  As a community Martinsville embraced the power and positivity that public art can bring to a common space.

Martinsville Bulletin Press Release

The Vinton Community Mural project was funded by the Vinton Veterinary Clinic in partnership with volunteers from William Byrd High School.  The artist, Jon Murrill, designed the project to highlight the nearby Blue Ridge Parkway and its wildlife.

Vinton Messenger Press Release