By SALINA POST
A Mural Movement is proud to announce its 30th mural, which will be created by Orlando-based artist Christian Stanley. The mural, spanning 3,200 square feet, will adorn the CVA grain bin located near downtown Clay Center, KS.
Scheduled to commence on April 19, the mural is anticipated to be completed within approximately three weeks. The artwork will encapsulate a thematic representation of Kansas, incorporating various elements emblematic of our state.
About the Artist
Stanley is a distinguished muralist hailing from Orlando, Florida, renowned for his contributions to street art across the nation. His portfolio includes notable works in Memphis, Tenn., Las Vegas, Nev., and various locations throughout central Florida.
Born and raised in Stuart, Fl., Stanley's art is often influenced by his roots and love for the wildlife of the Southeast. From an early age, Stanley sought out natural settings for inspiration and continues to enjoy hiking and wildlife spotting with his wife, Jessica.
Stanley's artistic vision often intertwines nature and fantasy themes, resonating with the ethos of the communities hosting his murals. This upcoming mural on the grain bin will mark Stanley's second contribution to Clay Center, following his acclaimed 'Sunflower State of Mind' mural completed in 2022.
“Being a part of A Mural Movement is an amazing experience. This community is like no other and I am proud to have been able to be a part of the program," Stanley said. "It is my hope that people will stop by and enjoy the murals for years to come, and recognize Clay Center as a hub for mural arts in Kansas.”
Painting in Clay Center was a valued opportunity for the pair, as Jessica’s family is from Central Kansas.
The two met in 2017 and soon after formed C. Stanley Creative while painting a small electrical box as a part of a community art initiative. Since then Stanley has gone on to paint dozens of murals a year with his largest project to date spanning over 8,000 square feet in size. He has taken his mural art talents across the United States and overseas to international street art festivals.
Stanley's street art work is known for its signature “dash and dot” style, which borders on impressionism to give his subjects depth and vibrant color. He has had the privilege of working with large national brands and local community arts organizations alike.
In his studio, Stanley's work often calls back to the flora and fauna of home, with occasional fantasy or surreal themes. His process involves concepting, digital illustration, and painting with the use of custom made stencils, spray paint, and acrylic paint. He has participated in shows and sold original works with ABV Gallery in Atlanta, Georgia.
Christian and Jessica work full-time in the arts, and are firm believers in the power of art to change places for the better. In their travels they had the opportunity to see the power of public art at work in communities of all shapes and sizes, and find their most rewarding work to be in towns that understand that art can be used as a tool for community revitalization.
About A Mural Movement
A Mural Movement of Clay Center has spearheaded 29 transformative murals over the past four years, with Stanley's mural poised to be the 30th landmark addition.
Collaborating with artists from Kansas, Missouri, Oklahoma, Colorado, Texas, Florida, and California, A Mural Movement has been instrumental in enhancing the aesthetic appeal of Clay Center while leveraging public art to attract visitors. These impactful mural projects have been made possible through the generous contributions of donors from Clay Center and across the United States.
Tax-deductible donations can be made through the Clay Center Community Improvement Foundation to support future endeavors.