UK Art and Visual Studies Students Help Celebrate Lexington’s 250th with Community-Inspired Mural

As Lexington concluded its year-long 250Lex celebration, city leaders and community members gathered at the Central Bank Center on December 15, 2025, for the unveiling of a new public art installation created in partnership with the University of Kentucky School of Art and Visual Studies (SA/VS).

During a ceremony marking the close of the city’s 250th anniversary, Mayor Linda Gorton reflected on the significance of the past year’s events, noting that Lexington spent the last 12 months celebrating “the spirit of what makes Lexington such a special place to call home.” Her remarks preceded the unveiling of the multimedia mural, which now hangs inside the Central Bank Center as a visual reflection on the city’s past, present and future.

Developed in collaboration with LexArts and students from the SA/VS Public Art class, the multimedia work reflects a year of celebration, community, and shared history. The mural captures the many moments, stories and community gatherings that defined Lexington’s milestone year. Unveiled as part of the official 250Lex festivities, the work highlights the role of student artists in shaping meaningful public art while engaging directly with the community they serve.

“This project gave our students an opportunity to contribute to a major civic milestone,” said Lee Ann Paynter, senior lecturer and course instructor. “Creating work for a public audience underscores the power of art to tell shared stories and bring people together.”

The project reflects a shared commitment between LexArts and the University of Kentucky College of Fine Arts to support emerging artists and embed creativity into Lexington’s public spaces. As the city looks ahead to future celebrations, the mural stands as a lasting reminder of Lexington’s 250th year and the collaborative spirit that defined it.