Transforming Grey Walls Into Vibrant Art: The Hinton Area Elementary Mural Project
- JimLeslie2020
- 21 minutes ago
- 3 min read
A plain grey wall at Hinton Area Elementary (HAE) School has been transformed into a stunning public art display that celebrates the natural beauty and outdoor lifestyle of the region. This project, known as the Wall of Art, is more than just a mural—it is a community effort that brought together students, teachers, artists, and local organizations to create a lasting legacy. The story behind this transformation reveals the power of collaboration, creativity, and dedication in turning an ordinary space into a source of pride and inspiration.
The Beginning of the Wall of Art Project
The idea for the Wall of Art began in the summer of 2024 when Kelly Mills, an Elementary School Specialist at HAE, envisioned turning a dull grey wall into a vibrant mural. The goal was to create a public art attraction that reflects the area's natural surroundings and growing outdoor recreation economy. This vision quickly gained support from HAE School Principal Angel Gumm and Talcott Elementary School Principal Becca Brown, who saw the project as a way to enrich the school environment and community.
Teachers Briana Miller, Hannah Kinsey, and Austin Thomas joined the effort, becoming painters alongside Kelly Mills and Principal Becca Brown during the summer of 2026. Their involvement shows how the project became a hands-on experience for educators, connecting them directly with the creative process.
Choosing the Design and Artist Collaboration
Kelly Mills reached out to artist Nicole Westfall from Huntington, WV, known for her work on the Piney Creek I-64 bridge pier murals. Nicole’s experience with large-scale public art made her the perfect fit for this project. She worked closely with Kelly, who provided photos of the local area to inspire the mural’s design.
Nicole created three design options, which were presented to the upcoming 4th grade class at HAE. The students voted on their favorite, choosing the design that would become their 5th grade legacy project. This involvement gave the mural a special meaning for the students, connecting them personally to the artwork and the school.
Community Support and Execution
The project required coordination beyond the school. Tina Westfall Allen connected with Candace Harless from Community Connections Inc., a non-profit organization in Princeton, WV, to arrange payment for Nicole Westfall’s work. The City of Hinton also played a role in supporting the project.
To transfer the design onto the wall, Candace Harless and Recovery Point of Bluefield WV used projection techniques over two nights. This process was carefully managed with the help of Sheriff Faris and deputies, who closed traffic to ensure safety. The primer for the wall was provided by JB Simmons with Sherman Williams, and the priming was done by Principal Angel Gumm, Teacher Briana Miller, and Specialist Kelly Mills.
The mural also features the school mascots and the new HAE logo, which were provided by Hinton Outfitters after the mascots were relocated to HAE. This detail ties the mural directly to the school’s identity.
The Impact on the Community
The Wall of Art has become a point of pride for Hinton Area Elementary and the wider community. It transforms an ordinary wall into a colorful tribute to the region’s environment and outdoor activities. The project brought together different groups—students, teachers, artists, local businesses, and city officials—in a shared effort that strengthened community bonds.
For the students, the mural is a visible reminder of their involvement and creativity. For residents and visitors, it offers a reason to slow down, appreciate local art, and celebrate the natural beauty around them.
Lessons from the Wall of Art Project
This project highlights several key lessons for anyone interested in community art or school-based initiatives:
Collaboration is essential. The project succeeded because many people and organizations worked together, each contributing their skills and resources.
Involve the community early. Letting students vote on the design gave them ownership and made the mural meaningful to them.
Plan carefully for logistics. Coordinating traffic closures and projection work ensured the mural could be created safely and efficiently.
Use local talent and resources. Hiring an artist familiar with the region and involving local businesses helped ground the project in the community.
Celebrate local identity. Including school mascots and logos connects the artwork to the school’s culture and history.
Encouraging More Public Art Projects
The success of the Wall of Art at HAE shows how public art can enhance school environments and community spaces. Other schools and neighborhoods can take inspiration from this project by:
Identifying underused or plain spaces that could benefit from art
Engaging students and community members in the creative process
Partnering with local artists and organizations for support
Planning carefully for materials, safety, and funding
Public art projects like this one not only beautify spaces but also build community pride and provide educational opportunities.