Local Artists Transform LEAD Public Schools Campuses with Inspiring Murals
Two campuses at LEAD Public Schools were transformed this summer, thanks to the talent of local artists. Through a partnership with Spoken Graffiti, the walls of LEAD Neely’s Bend and LEAD Southeast were updated with murals that embody the spirit and values of their students and staff.
These campus mural projects were made possible by the Thrive Grant, which is funded by Metro Arts. This grant supports Nashville artists and organizations who are deeply engaged in community work. Spoken Graffiti was selected as the partner for LEAD’s campus murals because of their ability to infuse both literary and visual arts in a way that speaks directly to students and school culture.
“What I love most about Spoken Graffiti is that it’s designed to leave an impact,” said Karimah Taylor, who oversaw the project. “From the words in the poems to the visuals in the mural, every element is intentional. The goal is to create something lasting—something students and staff can return to again and again for inspiration.”
After meeting with the schools’ principals, Spoken Graffiti used the schools’ vision and values to inspire original poetry and visual illustrations for the murals. Local artist Christian Green was selected as the muralist for the project.
“For both murals, my inspiration came from wanting to make a bold statement to motivate the students daily,” said Green. “At LEAD Neely’s Bend, I wanted to create something bold and uplifting, and at LEAD Southeast, I focused on blending vibrant colors and symbolic elements in the poems to motivate and remind students who they are.”
The goal of the Thrive Grant is to expose more Nashvillians to art in community spaces. Taylor adds, “[Art is] more than decoration—it’s a tool for reflection, expression, and healing. Infusing art into schools gives students a chance to see their stories, voices, and values represented visually and poetically. It builds pride and sparks conversations that might not happen otherwise.”
The murals not only enhance the visual appearance of LEAD’s campuses, they also create a renewed sense of pride and community for LEAD Neely’s Bend and LEAD Southeast students and staff.
“I hope the murals serve as daily reminders of their potential and creativity, that they can overcome challenges, and that they can make their mark,” said Green. “I want students and staff to see themselves reflected in the art and feel inspired to bring their best every day.”
