"The piece is an experience. Your own experience," artist Kimberly Clo says of her mural. "There are as many ways of interpreting the art as there are people in the world."
Nashville is a city known for many things: the heart and soul of country music, a southern culinary experience unlike any other, and increasingly, a haven for artists of all types from across the globe. In the past few years, Nashville has seen an explosion of public art, including incredible murals along buildings old and new.
At NewsChannel 5, we've watched the city expand and grow over decades. We grew up in, and with, Middle Tennessee. And we wanted to do something special for the community. "In hard times, everyone needs a little encouragement, everyone needs a lift," Vice President & General Manager Lyn Plantinga says. "This is a gift to them from the people of NewsChannel 5 who really care about our neighbors."
The theme of the mural is 'Embrace' and we're hoping that people who see the mural will do just that: Hug a loved one, friends, or even just hug themselves. "Sometimes when things are heavy, overwhelming, frightening, what we could use more than anything in the world is a strong, solid hug," Clo says.
Woodworker Tony Pearson has added a special touch of his own, a bench to sit in front of Kimberly's mural. "You've got something out there in the public that you can see and use, sit on, touch, feel," Pearson says. "We've got a very one-of-a-kind piece."
If you'd like to learn more about the artists, Forrest Sanders has profiled both Kimberly and Tony, which you can read below:
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If you want to give back to your community, there are countless ways to get involved, from volunteering your time to donating to non-profits throughout Middle Tennessee. While it would be impossible to list all deserving non-profits, there are several we can recommend.
Second Harvest Food Bank of Middle Tennessee opened its doors in 1978 with the purpose to provide a central distribution center for companies, groups, and individuals who wished to help provide food to people facing hunger in Middle Tennessee. 96 cents of every dollar goes directly to feeding programs. Over the years, Second Harvest Food Bank of Middle Tennessee has donated more than 38 million meals to families in need.
Whether you want to volunteer with your family, your coworkers, or on your own, United Way can help find the right opportunity for you. Through their partnership with Hands on Nashville, you can find a complete calendar full of great local organizations that could use your help.
Most people recognize the bell ringing and iconic red Kettle during the holidays, but the Salvation Army is about so much more. From serving hot meals to supportive housing and financial assistance, the Salvation Army has served Nashville for over 130 years helping fight poverty and prevent homelessness throughout Nashville and Middle Tennessee.
Since 1991, the Community Foundation has partnered with nonprofits throughout more than 40 Middle Tennessee and Kentucky counties, offering grants in times of disaster, employee assistance programs and scholarships. Their vision is to help people feel good about giving, no matter the amount, no matter the cause.
