Visual Storytelling
The Art Behind the Archives

Murals

Mural depicts three stylized women figures with flowing hair and expressive poses in warm tones.
Image of a mural by Aliya Smith and Brooke Powell featuring three figures. The mural has text that begins “This mural is for survivors…”, 2019

Murals are artistic expressions that can be found in various public spaces. They are large-scale paintings or artwork typically created on walls or other surfaces, and because of this, they are usually commissioned by businesses and organizations.

Mural of a person with an afro centered against a patterned background.
Image of mural by Will Mitchell. Mural reads “I Am Somebody Old Fourth Ward”, 2019
Blue wall mural with white text and large red lips in the center reads “ATL Believes Women” in bold lettering.
Atl Believes Women. 2019
Mural with bold shapes and bright colors fills the side of a building.
Mural by Yoyocam.2019
Mural shows a line of historical civil rights leaders marching with arms linked, with the city skyline behind them under a yellow and pink sunset.
Image of “We Shall Always March Ahead” by Muhammad Yungai in Downtown Atlanta, GA., 2019

Murals often depict a specific theme or tell a story, and they can be found in cities, neighborhoods, and even inside buildings. These animated and visually appealing artworks add color and character to their surroundings, making them a popular form of public art. 

Black-and-white image shows two white men painting a mural, both reaching upward with paintbrushes as they work on the wall.

Athos Manaboni and Duff Sutton, Jr., working on a large mural, Atlanta, Georgia, November 1951
Three Black male artists paint a large mural portrait of a Black boy on a bright, colorful background, working from scaffolding on the side of a building facade.
Mural being painted on facade of 7 Stages Theatre, Atlanta, Georgia, May 1992