As a muralist and designer based in Columbus, Ohio, I’m often asked how the city has shaped my art and design work. The short answer is: it has shaped it in tons of ways! Columbus is not just the city where I live and work; it’s a source of inspiration and a creative community that continues to evolve. From its rich history in arts and culture to the ever-growing presence of local businesses seeking custom murals and commercial design, Columbus has become an integral part of my artistic journey.
The City’s Walls: A Canvas for Muralists
One of the most obvious ways Columbus influences my art is through its growing commercial art landscape. As a muralist, I’m constantly inspired by the vibrant neighborhoods and diverse architecture that define the city..
The murals scattered throughout Columbus serve not only as beautiful artworks but as visual markers of community identity. This city celebrates its artists and gives us the opportunity to leave our mark, literally. As a local artist, I feel a deep connection to these public works. Each mural I create isn’t just about adding color to a space—it’s about telling a story that resonates with the people who pass by it every day. Whether it’s a custom mural for a local business or a large-scale public art project, I aim to make my designs meaningful and reflective of the city’s spirit.
The Intersection of Art and Design in Columbus
Columbus isn’t just a place where art exists in isolation—it’s a city where art and design intersect in powerful ways. As a designer, I’ve had the opportunity to work on numerous commercial projects, from custom branding for local businesses like Royal Flamingo Coffee to designing eye-catching murals for local businesses like Natalie’s Grandview and Jackie O’s on 4th. The design community here is diverse and constantly pushing creative boundaries.
One of my favorite things about Columbus is its openness to new ideas. The city has an entrepreneurial energy that encourages innovation in both art and design. This has given me the chance to collaborate with local businesses, restaurants, and non-profits, creating custom artwork that reflects their mission and values. Whether it’s designing a mural or working on a branding project, the people here are passionate about supporting local artists, which makes my work even more rewarding.
The Community’s Support: A Key Ingredient for Growth
What I love most about being an artist in Columbus is the sense of community. The city has a rich history of embracing creativity, and it’s incredibly rewarding to witness that support firsthand. I’m constantly inspired by the artists, designers, and business owners I meet here—many of whom have become close collaborators and friends.
The local art scene is thriving, with events like the Columbus Arts Festival and Columbus Design Week bringing together artists, designers, and the public. These events showcase the talent of local creators, bring in national creators, and also provide valuable community connection opportunities. I’ve learned so much from the creative professionals here, and their support has helped me grow as both an artist and a designer.
Columbus, Ohio, has played a pivotal role in shaping who I am as an artist and designer. From the city’s vibrant mural culture to the demand for custom commercial design, there’s always something to inspire me in this city. As a muralist, I’m fortunate to create works that engage with the local community, and as a designer, I have the chance to collaborate with businesses that share my passion for art. Columbus has provided me with the canvas and the audience, and for that, I’m grateful.
Being a local artist here is not just about creating art—it’s about contributing to a city that values creativity and encourages collaboration. I look forward to continuing my journey in Columbus and seeing how this city will inspire my art and design for years to come.