27 Dec Ribbon Cutting Ceremony for New Golden Blocks Mural and Fresh Startz Grand Opening
The Augusta Housing and Community Development Department, in collaboration with the City of Augusta, the Porter Fleming Foundation, the Greater Augusta Arts Council, the Lucy Craft Laney Museum of Black History and Conference Center, building owner Denzel Robinson of Fresh Startz and SOAR , are thrilled to announce the ribbon-cutting ceremony and community presentation of the newest Golden Blocks Project mural addition: “Golden Blocks: A Community Built on the Shoulders of Giants” by local artist Theron Cartwright
The event is scheduled for Friday, January 24, 2025, at 10:30 a.m. followed by the Fresh Startz Grand Opening that will run until 1:00 p.m. at 1134 Laney Walker Blvd in Augusta, GA. This mural was created by local artist and muralist Theron Cartwright, who’s work can also be seen as part of the 5th Street Mural Project, stands as a symbol of unity, resilience, and cultural richness within our community. Inspired by musicians, educators and landmark businesses who are known to have contributed to the rich arts culture we see in Augusta’s River Region, this mural embodies the spirit of collaboration and community upliftment.
The vision for this extraordinary artwork was fostered by the Lucy Craft Laney Museum and the Committee for the Golden Blocks, who played instrumental roles in coordinating this effort. It is the newest in a series of public artworks created to honor Augusta’s African American heritage in the historic Laney-Walker and Bethlehem neighborhood. In addition, representatives from the Porter Fleming Foundation, who generously funded this large-scale mural as part of their commitment to supporting the arts and culture initiatives in Augusta, worked closely with the project development committee.
We are excited to unveil “Golden Blocks: A Community Built on the Shoulders of Giants”, which highlights the strength and vibrancy of our community. This project celebrates our rich cultural heritage and represents a collaborative effort to enhance our cityscape. The ribbon-cutting ceremony and community presentation will be graced by the presence of esteemed local community leaders, family members of the honored individuals, the artist Theron Cartwright, and invited guests and friends. It promises to be a memorable occasion filled with celebration, reflection, and appreciation for the arts and community spirit.
We invite members of the media and the community to join us in commemorating this significant milestone and celebrating the “Golden Blocks: A Community Built on the Shoulders of Giants,” a symbol of unity and pride for the City of Augusta.