06/26/2024
A new mural – this one dedicated to the natural beauty of our region and the deep affection felt by those who call Bristol home – has emerged on the downtown landscape, courtesy of a hometown girl. Against a background of whimsical blue and aqua swirls, the state of Tennessee appears in a vibrant orange, decorated with flowers of varying colors. A green reminiscent of the region’s pines was chosen for the map of Virginia, with various leaves scattered within as a tribute to the native trees. And where Bristol would appear on the map? A giant heart, of course.
Sidney Hanson, a Bristol native now in her senior year at Syracuse University, created the masterpiece while home for the summer. It isn’t her first art project or even her first mural. She’s been scribbling, drawing and painting most of her life. In fact, way back in elementary school when challenged to think about the future, she created a business card with the words “Sidney Hanson, Mural Artist.” Dreams do come true!
She painted her first mural in her childhood bedroom with permission from her parents and has since painted murals in Nashville and on buildings owned by her landlord in Syracuse, New York. When Kelly Moran of HBX Realty decided that her stark white building on 8th Street could use a bit of color, a friend piped up and suggested she give Sidney a shout. After several drafts and virtual meetings, they agreed on a design.
And so Sidney came home for the summer, both to complete an internship with Maggie and the two Emilys at Believe in Bristol and to turn her sketches into a massive work of art. The mural is best viewed from the back patio of Delta Blues BBQ but can also be seen from Downtown Center, home of Bristol’s iconic country music mural.
Shout out to Kelly Moran for donating her building for all of Bristol to enjoy and to Shawn Graham, art teacher at Tennessee High School, for encouraging Sidney to pursue her passion. And, of course, thanks to Sidney, who is now traveling back to Syracuse to complete her double major in Studio Arts and Art History, for sharing her talents and keeping Bristol in her heart. Our community is truly fortunate that so many gifted artisans fill our world with beaty and remind us to celebrate the best of our two states.