North Charlotte Today

A vibrant new mural has been unveiled on Beatties Ford Road, capturing the attention of passersby with its bright colors and prominent figures. The artwork adorns the side of JJ’s Hair Design salon and features artistic depictions of notable North Carolina natives. Executive Director J’Tanya Adams of the Historic West End Partners (HWEP) shared that this was intentional.

“HWEP is honored to be a facilitator for people gathering in the community,” Adams said. “We help create that by creating authentic bodies of work for all to enjoy.”

The City of Charlotte’s Urban Design Center funded the mural with a grant from the Knight Foundation. HWEP engaged local residents through a survey to decide on a theme, ultimately choosing music.

The mural highlights gospel singer John P. Kee, singer and actress Fantasia, and singer-songwriter Anthony Hamilton. Each has roots in North Carolina: Kee hails from Durham, Fantasia from High Point, and Hamilton from Charlotte. All have achieved significant success in their respective fields.

"John P. Kee has been a part of our community for many years before becoming a recording artist,” Adams noted. “He has become very vital to helping people around North Carolina. Anthony Hamilton grew up here. He sang at my Presbyterian church. As for Fantasia, we appreciate her for choosing Charlotte as her home."

Adams emphasized what these musicians symbolize beyond their careers: "All of them are modeling excellence before us,” she expressed.

Artist Abel Jackson took on the task of painting the mural, aiming to capture each musician authentically.

“If people were going to see themselves in the people on this mural, I wanted to show each person doing what they did best,” Jackson said.

Jackson sifted through numerous images before beginning his work on-site, completing it over three weeks despite cold conditions.

“It took three weeks to finish," he recalled.

The response was swift as visitors began flocking to see the art even before its completion, with social media amplifying its reach and garnering reactions from those featured.

“There were just so many responses from people,” Jackson said.

Reflecting on his contribution, Jackson remarked: “One of the things I offer as an artist...is helping people see a message through art.”

Adams echoed this sentiment: "Not only is art universal to all cultures and people; it is an awesome storytelling tool."

To view this inspiring piece firsthand, visit 1009 Beatties Ford Road. For those interested in similar projects locally, information about Placemaking Grants is available through HWEP's Placemaking Hub.