Nashville murals: Appreciating the art beyond the Instagram photo op

Murals have become an iconic part of Nashville’s visual identity, especially on social media (Taylor Swift’s famous wings photo, anyone?).

Muralists have been working in Nashville for decades, including Aaron Douglas’ work at the Fisk Galleries and several longtime muralists, graffiti artists and commercial painters. However, murals and street art have exploded in recent years due to major beautification efforts like the Nashville Walls Project, as well as the increasing popularity of Instagram-friendly photo ops.

In this episode we’re joined by a panel of artists to learn more about the history of murals in Nashville, how things have changed in recent years, and what that means for the future of street art in Nashville. But first, WPLN Morning Producer Alexis Marshall tells us all about her story on a new shared restaurant space in East Nashville. 

Guests: 

• Alexis Marshall, WPLN morning producer
• Lakesha Moore, Fisk Galleries coordinator and artist
• Brian Greif, artist and co-founder of the Nashville Walls Project
• Michael Cooper, owner of Murals and More
• Ghosty Lowks, graffiti and airbrush artist

Additional Reading: 

WPLN: What Happens When New Building Occupants Aren’t Sure They Want To Keep A Mural Of Police Shooting Victims?

Nashville Public Art: Nashville murals, street art, graffiti, signs, sculptures and more

WPLN: This Stunning Silo Mural Makes A West Nashville Old-Timer An Icon Of The Nations Redevelopment