A once-forgotten building on 5th Street is now bursting with color, thanks to a new public art project by Downtown Lynchburg Association. Set for redevelopment later this year, the space has been given a temporary makeover with bold, eye-catching murals by two talented local artists, bringing fresh energy to the neighborhood.
After the property owner replaced the worn-out window boards, DLA partnered with local artist Joshua Carter, who brought his vibrant artistic touch to the front of the building, while 5th Street resident and artist Deidre Stone painted ten abstract murals for one side. Their work brightens up the street and brings the community together while the building gets ready for its next chapter.
This initiative was made possible through a grant from Virginia Main Street, a program of the Virginia Department of Housing and Community Development, which supports efforts to revitalize historic downtowns across the state. Freedom First also provided funding to support this public art project, bringing creative energy and beauty to the neighborhood.
ARTIST BIOS
Joshua Carter
Joshua Carter is an Actor, Educator, and Visual Artist based in Central Virginia. In recent years he has explored the medium of acrylic paint and paper collage. His primere exhibit, Metamorphosis: A Palpable Abstraction (2019) focused on abstractions and heavy texture using paper and gel mediums. Since 2019 Joshua has found solace beyond the walls of galleries and shared his art with the public as a street vendor. Through the years Joshua's love of color and texture transformed into a fascination with the image of African Americans throughout history. Much of his recent work is inspired by folk art and the narrative behind images depicting Black people.
About this project:
“Intentionality is the heart of this season of my art. These murals are meant to address the concept of Double Consciousness: the awareness that one's self-image must coincide with and often succumb to societal views. My peace is interpreted as politics. My kindness becomes controversial. My neutrality is dangerous. I hope my murals challenge the recent culture of ambiguity and erasure and encourage those who travel 5th street to look up and strive for a brighter future.”
Deidre Stone
Deidre Stone is a multidisciplinary artist whose creative expression spans painting, metalsmithing, and various other forms of art. Drawing inspiration from the natural world, early 20th-century abstract art, and themes of mysticism and esotericism, she explores the deep connections between personal growth and the changing seasons. With a lifelong passion for art, her work is constantly evolving, reflecting the ebb and flow of life’s rhythms. Through her art, Deidre seeks to connect the inner and outer worlds, using her medium as a way to transcend boundaries and spark deeper conversations.
About this project:
“Local art is not just an aesthetic—it's a vital, living thread that weaves the community together. It serves as a conduit for joy, inspiration, and connection, enriching the fabric of any vibrant city. Being a part of this project, especially within the neighborhood I call home, is a true honor. The building I pass by every day now carries a piece of my heart, a contribution to the neighborhood’s ongoing rich history. In joining other incredible artists, I embrace the shared mission to inject energy and vibrancy into this historic area. Community is at the core of my work, and I hope my art will continue to foster excitement and a sense of possibility for what lies ahead.”
Stay tuned for more updates on our 5th Street beautification project!
