“A Walk Through Belton”

A Walk Through Belton — Creating the City's First Community Mural

In November 2024, I began what would become one of the most ambitious (and coldest) mural projects I’ve ever taken on: A Walk Through Belton. This mural, now completed as of February 2025, is Belton, Missouri’s first official community mural—and it lives in a tunnel that connects residents to the heart of Wallace Park. That might sound charming, but let me tell you, painting in a tunnel during Midwest winter was brisk, to say the least.

When I was selected by the Belton Arts Council for the honor of creating this piece, I met with their team to understand exactly what they envisioned. The result was a beautiful blend of past, present, and personality—a visual story of Belton that celebrates its people, history, and character. From the town’s pirate mascot to the iconic water tower, the historic railway to the fluttering monarch butterflies that pass through during their migration, this mural is a tribute to all the things that make Belton unique. There’s even a respectful nod to the Air Force base that once stood in town, and to two historical figures who shaped the community.

The mural itself spans a jaw-dropping 5,000 square feet—both sides of the tunnel are 200 feet long, and yes, I even painted the ceiling. (And yes, my neck still remembers.)

During the early stages, I was joined by some incredibly talented students from the Longview Community College Art Club. Their energy and dedication helped jumpstart the project before the weather turned on us. When temperatures dropped too low for paint to stick (even with the help of space heaters), I had to make the tough call to pause. Between freezing temperatures and getting completely snowed out, the mural was temporarily shelved until February gave us just enough warmth to return.

Of course, I couldn’t have done it alone. My painting assistant and best friend, Laura King, was with me every step of the way. We sprayed the background together—often while dodging spiders and laughing our way through the creepy-crawly moments. Toward the end of the project, Tony Sanderford joined us. This was his first mural, and it ended up sparking a new chapter for him: he’s now my regular painting partner. Watching someone fall in love with mural-making reminded me why I love it so much myself.

And yes—my corgi puppy Eleanor makes another guest appearance. At this point, she’s basically my brand mascot.

What I’m especially proud of in A Walk Through Belton is the way the community is invited to interact with it. We designed three different areas within the mural specifically for photo ops and immersive experiences. People can literally walk into Belton’s story and become a part of it. That’s what public art should do.

Despite the delays and frosty fingers, I’m so proud of how this mural turned out. It took longer than expected, but I believe the extra time helped make the final result even stronger. This project wasn’t just about beautifying a tunnel—it was about giving Belton a piece of itself, reflected back in color.

To everyone who helped, cheered us on, or just stopped by to say hello—you’re part of this mural too. Thanks for walking through Belton with me.