The downtown murals are one facet of this small rural town’s personality. The mural project began in 1996; today West Jefferson sports twelve beautiful, intriguing, unique works of public art that showcase the history, culture and beauty of the mountain region.

The murals offer a glimpse into Ashe County life. They provide the viewer with an appreciation for the community – past and present. The murals add life to the downtown area and nurture a sense of renewal and civic pride.
For residents and visitors, the murals give a glimpse of the artistic talent that abounds in Ashe County. Contributing painters include West Jefferson, Ashe County and statewide artists, local students, and community members. The enthusiasm and the overwhelming support from the community have contributed to the mural project’s success.

The Ashe Arts Center serves as the “hub” of information for the arts in Ashe County and the Arts Council has long taken the lead role in using the arts as a vehicle for change and growth throughout the county. Recently the Arts Council created a murals brochure.

The brochure map is designed to guide you on an easy walking tour encompassing eight town blocks. Folks are encourage to take time to stroll through the streets of West Jefferson and enjoy galleries, studios, fine shops, services, delicious restaurants and interesting public art. The murals and public art have the power to beautify, enhance, inspire and to contribute to our living spaces.

The Murals of West Jefferson have been created and funded by a variety of sources.

Funding partners in the West Jefferson Downtown Murals Project include HandMade in America, the Blue Ridge National Heritage Area, the North Carolina Arts Council, the North Carolina Museum of Art, the West Jefferson Revitalization Committee/West Jefferson Community Partnership, Ashe County Schools, local businesses, the Town of West Jefferson and the Ashe County Arts Council.

More murals and public art are planned and there’s always something special going on in the area. For more information about arts programming, events or the murals in West Jefferson, call the Ashe County Arts Council at 336-846-ARTS.