Thanks to a grant from the Central Kansas Partnership, another mural project is launching in Barton County this week, the Barton Arts Movement announced. This project will be a series of three colorful, inspiring and interactive installations in Hoisington, Ellinwood and Claflin – all based on the theme of resilience and positive mental health, said BAM cochair Rachel Mawhirter.

“We’re calling the series ‘Rise Above’ and each mural will incorporate those words in large print,” Mawhirter said. “Each project will serve as an interactive backdrop for people to take pictures with, making it perfect content for social media. Our goal is that we will not only promote hope through the Rise Above message, but that we can also bring awareness and interest to each community.”

Each art installation will take a different spin on the message, while still conveying positivity.

“We hope these murals will serve as a reminder that we’re all in this together,” Mawhirter said. “Nothing is insurmountable if neighbors continue supporting neighbors and help to connect those who are struggling with the resources and encouragement they need to overcome adversity.”

Hoisington’s project will feature a colorful set of balloons at 115 N. Main Street on the side of Mitchell’s Wood Furniture and More, next to a beautiful green space owned and maintained by First Kansas Bank. 

Ellinwood’s project will feature a set of eagle’s wings at 16 N. Main Street on the side of Jensen Associates Inc. Insurance Agency.

Claflin’s project is still being finalized, but will have a unique interpretation on the Rise Above theme located on the side of the Independent Township Library at 108 Main Street. 

All three murals are being painted by Mindy’s Murals out of Junction City. Residents and visitors are invited to stop by the mural locations to watch the progress over the next week or two, depending on the weather. Artist Mindy Allen started Tuesday in Hoisington and will make her way around to the other communities after that.

“We also hope these projects will spur further excitement around our ‘Call to Communities’ fundraising initiative, with the goal of raising necessary funds for more projects in 2022,” Mawhirter said. “The more engagement and donations we receive, the bigger our response can be next summer.”

Anyone interested in responding to the call is encouraged to make a donation of any size at www.goldenbeltcf.org/donate/. Donors need to include #BAM in the notes section of the online form so the gift will be allocated to the Barton Arts Movement. All gifts are tax deductible.