The Lawrenceville Arts Commission has been awarded a $20,000 Project Grant from the Gwinnett Creativity Fund to support the creation of the Magnolias on a Sweet Breeze community mural. This initiative, made possible through the generous support of Gwinnett County and Explore Gwinnett Tourism + Film, will bring a new collaborative public art piece to Lawrenceville, further enhancing the city’s cultural landscape.
The mural, Magnolias on a Sweet Breeze by artist Angela Bortone, will be prominently displayed near Georgia Gwinnett College on the Collins Hill Road overpass of State Route 316. Under the guidance of muralist Angela Bortone, members of the community—including Georgia Gwinnett College students, faculty, and visitors—will have the opportunity to participate in painting the mural, reinforcing the City’s commitment to community engagement through public art.
Following the model of Lawrenceville Blooms, the City’s first community participation mural, this project invites a broad cross-section of the community to take part, aiming to have at least 100 individuals contribute to the creation process. Once completed, the mural will serve as a visual gateway to Lawrenceville, welcoming thousands of daily commuters and visitors to the city’s vibrant community.
“This project is a perfect example of how the arts can strengthen connections within our community,” said Lawrenceville Mayor David Still. “By engaging local artists, students, and residents, we are not only creating a beautiful landmark but also fostering a deeper sense of pride and collaboration that will resonate for years to come.”
The Magnolias on a Sweet Breeze mural project enhances the area’s aesthetic appeal for commuters while deepening the connection between Lawrenceville and Georgia Gwinnett College, showcasing how public art can cultivate a sense of belonging and local identity.
The initiative aligns with the mission of the Gwinnett Creativity Fund, which seeks to assist arts organizations in growing, evolving, and expanding access to artistic and cultural experiences. By integrating public art into high-visibility spaces, this project advances Lawrenceville’s broader efforts to develop an inclusive and vibrant cultural landscape.
The mural’s creation will begin with Bortone outlining and preparing the wall in early April. Georgia Gwinnett College students will have a dedicated painting day to contribute alongside the artist and Lawrenceville Arts Commission members. Registration opens to the public on April 17 for community painting days in late April, offering residents a hands-on opportunity to be part of this vibrant addition to Lawrenceville’s public art scene. leading up to an artist reception and talk at Georgia Gwinnett College on April 22. An artist reception and talk at Georgia Gwinnett College will provide an opportunity for the community to engage with the artist and learn more about the creative process.
“We are excited to invite residents, students, and visitors to engage directly with the artist, Angela Bortone, during the community painting days and the artist talk,” said Jasmine Billings, Community & Economic Development Director. “The Lawrenceville Arts Commission is proud to provide an opportunity for our community to come together and contribute to something lasting.”
The City of Lawrenceville and the Lawrenceville Arts Commission extend their gratitude to Gwinnett County and the Gwinnett Creativity Fund for their continued investment in the arts. Their support ensures that public art remains a vital part of the community’s identity, enriching the lives of residents and visitors alike.
For more information on how to participate in the Magnolias on a Sweet Breeze Community Mural, visit the Arts Commission webpage.