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In many rural towns, revitalization doesn’t always begin with a large development project or a major investment. Sometimes, it starts with art.

In a recent episode of our podcast, we shine a spotlight on two of Flint Energies’ Rural Murals located in Butler, Georgia, in Taylor County, and explore how two murals helped spark renewed energy, activity, and pride in the community’s historic downtown.

 

When Art Becomes a Catalyst

What began as a mural project quickly grew into something much bigger. The artwork became a focal point—drawing residents and visitors back into downtown Butler to shop, dine, and gather. More than just a photo opportunity, the mural helped reintroduce people to the charm and character of a small town many had driven past for years.

Public art has a unique ability to create a sense of place. In Butler, the mural became a visual reminder of the town’s story, encouraging conversation, connection, and curiosity. It also helped shift perception—showing that rural communities can be vibrant, creative, and worth exploring.

The Role of Murals in Rural Economic Development

Murals do more than beautify a wall. They can:

  • Encourage travelers to leave the interstate and explore Georgia’s backroads

  • Increase foot traffic in downtown areas

  • Support local businesses through visitor spending

  • Strengthen community pride and identity

When people come to see a mural, they often stay to eat, shop, and explore. That ripple effect can have a meaningful economic impact—especially in small towns.

Storytelling Through Art

Each Rural Murals project is custom-designed by selected artists to reflect the community it represents. Whether highlighting a historic moment, local folklore, a festival, or a prominent industry, no two murals are the same. These works serve as storytelling tools, preserving and celebrating local history and culture in a way that’s accessible to everyone.

In Butler, the mural helped tell the town’s story—one that residents could take pride in and visitors could connect with.

Apply for the 2026 Rural Murals Grant

Applications are now open for the 2026 Rural Murals Grant, a collaboration between Flint Energies and rural communities across Middle and Southwest Georgia. Selected projects receive partial funding for large-scale murals that:

  • Celebrate unique community history, culture, and identity

  • Spark downtown activation and economic development

  • Strengthen sense of place for residents

  • Support talented local and regional artists

The program’s goal is to improve aesthetics, increase marketability, enhance community perception, and encourage continued private investment. Money spent by mural visitors directly benefits host communities—helping small towns thrive.

👉 Learn more and apply: https://flintenergies.com/rural-murals

Stay Connected in Taylor County

To keep up with events, shopping, dining, and community happenings in Butler and Reynolds, follow the Taylor County Chamber of Commerce on Facebook:
https://www.facebook.com/taylorcountycofc

🎧 Listen to the full podcast episode to hear how one mural helped bring a downtown back to life—and how your community could be next.