The Story Behind the Mural
About the Mural
Every Color Speaks is a city-commissioned public mural celebrating the history, diversity, and spirit of Lynchburg, Virginia — painted for the people, by the people.
30sq ft
Mural Surface Area
2.5months
From Concept to Completion
18residents
Community Contributors
7colors
Hand-Mixed Colors Used
Our Vision
Art That Belongs to Everyone
Every Color Speaks began with a simple question: what would it look like if a city truly saw itself? Not just its landmarks or its skyline, but its people — their faces, their stories, their colors.
Commissioned by the City of Lynchburg in 2023, the project brought together two acclaimed muralists, a community advisory board, and hundreds of residents whose voices shaped every element of the final design.
The result is a 3,200-square-foot mural that stretches across the exterior of a downtown building — a permanent, living portrait of a city in full color. It is the largest public artwork in Lynchburg's history.
We didn't want to make art about Lynchburg. We wanted to make art with Lynchburg.
— Lead Muralist
Project Timeline
From Idea to Icon
January 2023
Project Commissioned
The City of Lynchburg officially commissions the mural as part of its Downtown Revitalization Initiative, allocating funding and selecting the project site.
March 2023
Artists Selected
After a competitive open call drawing 47 submissions, the selection committee chooses two artists whose collaborative vision best reflects the community's aspirations.
May–August 2023
Community Listening Sessions
The artists host six public listening sessions across Lynchburg's neighborhoods, gathering stories, images, and themes from over 400 residents that will inform the mural's design.
October 2023
Design Unveiled
The final mural design is presented to the public at a City Hall ceremony. The design incorporates imagery, symbols, and color palettes drawn directly from community input.
February 2024
Painting Begins
With scaffolding erected and the wall primed, the artists begin the months-long process of translating the design to the building's exterior — working through winter and into spring.
June 2024
Mural Completed & Unveiled
Every Color Speaks is unveiled at a public celebration attended by hundreds of Lynchburg residents, city officials, and community partners. The mural is officially dedicated to the city.
Photo Gallery
The Making of Every Color Speaks
Find the Mural
Visit in Person
The mural is located on the exterior of a building in the heart of downtown Lynchburg. It is free to visit, open to the public year-round, and best viewed from the sidewalk across the street.
Downtown Lynchburg, Virginia
From the Lynchburg Visitor Center, head south on 9th Street. The mural will be visible on your left.
Downtown Lynchburg, VA
Open year-round · Free admission