Huntsville Youth Center Unveils Colorful Mural Created by Local Students

Huntsville Celebrates Creative Spirit with New Outdoor Mural

Huntsville, AL – A wave of color has splashed across the patio of the Youth Center in Huntsville thanks to a talented group of high school and middle school students. Last week, the center unveiled a stunning outdoor mural created entirely by its young artists, showcasing their creativity and the vibrant activities available at the center.

Twenty ambitious students, aged 12 to 17, rolled up their sleeves and painted their vision on a sunny patio wall. Some even began their work over the summer, demonstrating a level of passion and commitment that has impressed everyone involved. Tatyana Hankinson, the center’s art instructor, couldn’t help but express her excitement, noting, “This is the first mural at Redstone Arsenal. We’re excited about that!”

As you stroll around various towns in our area, like Huntsville, Madison, Athens, and Decatur, you’ll probably notice an abundance of beautiful outdoor murals. Tatyana hopes the Youth Center’s mural will add to this movement, making its mark in the community.

The young artists shared their thoughts about the project, and their enthusiasm was infectious. Sixteen-year-old Kimberly Lewis, who painted a white bus to symbolize their trips to exciting places like bowling alleys and Atlanta, said, “I like going on trips with the youth center to bowling, to Atlanta, go-karting, or even just a simple trip to Stars and Strikes.” This talented teen even won Best in Show at the Youth Center’s annual art show this year! Kimberly added, “We can add more if we want to, but I love it the way it is.”

The students received guidance from esteemed local artist Ann Moeller, who has worked on a number of large-scale public art pieces across the region. Ann met with the students before embarking on this artistic endeavor, sharing her experience and insights about mural painting. She was one of the original artists behind Madison’s mural trail, including the beautiful “March of the Monarch” that pays tribute to Alabama’s state insect.

At the mural unveiling on October 9, Tatyana praised the students’ efforts, saying, “You did such a wonderful job. You worked so hard during the heat in the summer and after school.” The mural features a cornucopia of symbols representing various activities and programs at the center—think piano keys, musical notes, sports equipment like volleyballs and basketballs, a vibrant tomato plant, an open book, an Xbox controller, and even a rocket with “NASA USA” painted on it in the center.

Not only does the mural reflect what the Youth Center stands for, but it also showcases the names of students and staff who contributed to its creation. Jeanine Bailey, the Youth Center Director, was visibly touched by the result. “I love it, I think it’s amazing,” she remarked with a smile. “It makes me very happy. You can see it from the road, and I think that it really makes our center stand out.”

Despite initial hesitations about tackling such a large project, 13-year-old Liberty Harris ultimately embraced the journey. Liberty painted the iconic Super Mushroom from the Mario franchise, along with the mural’s large rocket and the tomato plant. “When I first saw the bare wall, I was hesitant. But then it all came together. I was like, OK. I think it’s pretty decent,” Liberty shared, a proud smile on her face.

The mural stands as a testament to creativity, collaboration, and community spirit at the Youth Center, and it’s a beautiful tribute to all the amazing things happening right here in Huntsville. As these young artists continue to explore their talents, we can expect to see even more inspiring projects that enrich our community.