BY ROGER SMITH
MOUNTAIN CITIZEN
INEZ — The side of a building in downtown Inez will bloom with color and meaning during this year’s Appalachian Artist Festival. A mural—the city’s first—will elevate clean water from a public utility issue to a moral and cultural imperative.
The image is striking: A woman draped in flowing white rises from the mountains, her body forming a river that winds down into the valleys. In one hand, she cradles a dulcimer; in the other, wildflowers. She is at once guardian, spirit and reminder. At her feet flow the waters that have both shaped and challenged life in Martin County.
Austin Shuck, founder of the Appalachian Pioneer Program, is commissioning the work.
In 2021, he walked from Slade to Inez to raise funds for Martin County residents struggling with the county’s decades-long water crisis. His goal was $20,000; he raised $3,500.
Looking to make the greatest impact with what he had, the Morgan County native teamed up with local artist Phill Barnett.
“We thought a mural could raise awareness of the water issues and celebrate the community’s artists and culture,” Shuck said.
The two found the perfect canvas on the building that houses Leonard Stayton’s law office and the Mountain Citizen on Main Street.
Shuck initially set an unveiling date in April 2023. However, concerns about possible construction on the adjoining lot delayed the project.
Now, with the county’s recent purchase of the vacant lot, the mural will rise Aug. 2 at 20 West Main Street (at the intersection of Route 40 and Holy Street).
“It does not solve the water crisis, but it reclaims the narrative,” said Shuck.
Organizers are planning other water-themed activities and invite community participation.
“I’m excited about this,” said Jennifer Wells, Appalachian Artist Festival founder.
Madison Mooney, a local water activist and AAF committee member, hopes to see water-interested individuals and groups bring their resources. She is also eyeing local students for special water-related art projects.
Details are coming soon.