'Dedication Celebration' on April 26 for completion of mural

By Judy Pearson / Chronicle contributor

April 24, 2008 02:40 pm

— You're invited. It has been an exciting time for the Crossville Arts Council lately. If you have not already, please stop by the corner of Main and Fifth streets and see what's happening on our downtown mural project. The painting will soon be finished and the Crossville Arts Council invites you to attend the "Dedication Celebration" of our completed mural at 1 p.m. on Saturday, April 26, at the site.
The mural, 73 feet long by 19 feet high, is the work of New York muralist Katie Yamasaki, selected high school students and community members. Begun with a community “Priming Party” on March 18, the six-week artist residency has gone forward in spite of rain, snow, and cold winds.
Yamasaki’s design for the mural reflects the history and culture of Crossville and Cumberland County, and includes images of the county's Native American origins, pioneering past, agricultural history, military history, religious life, and current events, organizations and landmarks. Funded by a grant from the Tennessee Arts Commission, with matching grants from the city of Crossville and Cumberland County, and support from the people of Cumberland County, the mural is a public piece of artwork that will grace our community for many years to come.
Please come to help celebrate the completion of the downtown mural project, the first step toward showcasing Crossville as “A Community of the Arts.” A member of the Tennessee Arts Commission, local officials, Yamasaki and the students who participated in the project will be there to greet you. There will be live music, food vendors, balloons for the kids and fun for all.