10 Aug Press Release: New Community Mural Completed in Downtown Pulaski
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
CONTACT:
Ryan Vaughan
Director of Marketing
Friends of Southwest Virginia
New Community Mural Completed in Downtown Pulaski
‘Round the Mountain Artisan Network and community partners celebrate the completion of a public art project inspired by Pulaski residents.
PULASKI, Va. (Monday, August 10, 2026) — ‘Round the Mountain: Southwest Virginia’s Artisan Network, is celebrating the completion of a new community mural in downtown Pulaski. Created in partnership with the Fine Arts Center of the New River Valley and the Town of Pulaski, the mural reflects the history, culture, and community spirit that make Pulaski unique.
The project is the second completed installation in ‘Round the Mountain’s Community Mural Initiative, which uses public art to strengthen downtowns, celebrate local identity, and create lasting community assets across the region.
Designed by local mural artist Jay Scott of Jay Scott Studios, the mural was shaped by extensive community input gathered through surveys and public engagement opportunities beginning in the fall of 2025. Residents shared the stories, places, and people they felt best represented Pulaski, providing the inspiration for the final design.
“Public art is an investment in the identity and vitality of our communities,” said Kim Davis, Executive Director of Friends of Southwest Virginia. “This mural tells Pulaski’s story in a way that belongs to the community, while also creating a new reason for visitors to stop, explore downtown, and experience what makes this place special. That combination of community pride, creative placemaking, and economic opportunity is exactly what we want to support through ‘Round the Mountain. We’re proud to partner with the Town of Pulaski, the Fine Arts Center of the New River Valley, and the community to create something that will be part of Pulaski for years to come.”
Located at the Fine Arts Center of the New River Valley, the mural transforms a prominent downtown space into a vibrant public gathering place while creating a new attraction for residents and visitors alike. The project supports ‘Round the Mountain’s mission to strengthen downtown development, community revitalization, and the creative economy through public art.
“Watching this mural come to life has been incredibly exciting,” said Brandon Phillips, Executive Director of the Fine Arts Center for the New River Valley. “We are deeply grateful to the Appalachian Regional Commission, ’Round the Mountain, the Town of Pulaski, artist Jay Scott, and everyone whose support made this wonderful addition to our community possible.”
The project was funded by the Appalachian Regional Commission and the Virginia Department of Housing and Community Development. ‘Round the Mountain managed the project as part of its Community Mural Initiative, working closely with local partners and community members throughout the planning and design process.