Whether driving, walking or cycling, nearly everyone appreciates the beauty of an artfully painted mural on the side of a building. Murals, especially those with bright colors, are said to improve mood, reduce stress and enhance overall well-being. They can nurture a positive image of a neighborhood and promote a sense of community pride. They can be a powerful tool to raise awareness about social issues and inspire creativity. Not to mention that in cities throughout the country and world, murals have become tourist attractions leading to many economic benefits.
The Flint Public Art Project (FPAP) has found a way to bring the beauty of murals into living rooms, offices, classrooms and more by publishing a book featuring these works of art that were created throughout Greater Flint.
Johnny Fletcher
According to Joseph Schipani, FPAP Executive Director, the concept of a mural book has been in the works since the inception of the project. “The idea was to create a comprehensive collection that showcases the community’s efforts to beautify the city, shifts the narrative of Flint from one of crisis to one of beauty, and highlights the talents of local artists,” he stated. This book aims to achieve all three goals, promoting and uplifting the vibrant art scene in Flint.”
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Schipani works closely with Sandra Branch, a long-time member of the FPAP and current creative director. It was her vision, creativity and ideas that started the murals project, according to Schipani.
Titled Flint Public Art Project Mural Book Volume 1!, the hard-cover book is currently being formatted by the printer.
Samskee
“We are publishing the book ourselves to keep the cost down and generate revenue for our 2025 season,” Schipani said. “Once we raise the funds, we will then be able to print and will have the books six weeks later.”
The book includes more than 300 works of art completed by nearly 150 artists. Among the many talented muralists is Kevin “Scraps” Burdick, well-known in mid-Michigan for his works. “Kevin has been with us from the conception and has the most murals in Flint,” Schipani said. Another is Johnny Fletcher, an international muralist whose works of art are enjoyed by many in the Flint area and beyond.
Senkoe
All the FPAP murals painted in Flint and surrounding cities prior to 2024 are highlighted in the book. The list of local buildings adorned with mural art is nearly as long as the list of artists who painted them, Schipani said.
“A few to note are, Totem Books, Hoffman’s Deco Deli, UM-Flint parking garage, Cork on Saginaw, Cocino Mia, the Dryden Building, Soggy Bottom Bar, Good Beans Café, Sylvester Broome Empowerment Village, Boys and Girls Club of Greater Flint, and there are so many others,” stated Schipani.
Charles Boike
Schipani is not himself an artist. “You don’t want me to paint a mural on your building,” he quipped. “I like the excitement of planning and organizing the project and the events; also, working with the community to get their feedback and ideas for the project and the murals. That’s where my excitement is.
“We want this book to be a celebration and legacy of the collaborative work done by the artists, community members, funders, business owners and project organizers – a piece of history that can be passed down for generations,” he said.
Zulu
What People Are Saying
Former Genesee County Prosecutor Arthur Busch is now retired. When not traveling, he divides his time between Michigan and Florida, and is the host of the podcast “Radio Free Flint.”
“I think the art is great for Flint,” Busch said. “I became interested in ‘graffiti’ as a prosecuting attorney. It was creeping up everywhere. A lady I know, Sandra Branch, took many pictures. She was quite knowledgeable about it. She was my graffiti whisperer.”
Deps One
With a background in art, security and law enforcement, Branch told Busch, who was willing to prosecute those responsible for the graffiti, that they were just kids.
“But we got the kids to clean it up and they would go back to the streets and do murals,” Busch said. “They (murals) began growing in popularity beyond anyone’s imagination.
Suellen Parker
I believe the murals are healthy for the community. Many of these kids have gotten jobs around the country and even around the world. The murals are rehabilitative and restorative in the sense of making the community a better place.”
Lee Castro is a long-time Flint resident. “I love what Johnny Fletcher and others are doing,” she shared. “They’re bringing light, color and beauty to our otherwise drab city. Johnny painted a mural right down the street from me at the tire store, and it’s really cool.”
Osiris Rain
Linda Russell, retired Cumulus Media sales executive, said, “I love the murals in and around Flint. They show our culture and diversity, and the art brings some flavor to the downtown area. Anytime I’m downtown, I always point out the murals to whomever I’m with.”
Christine Welsh, owner of Kerning Advertising, said, “Outdoor murals are a beautiful way to improve the look of otherwise plain walls while showcasing the artistic abilities of local artists. It’s a win for all.”
Kevin Burdick
How You Can Help
According to its crowd-funding site, the FPAP has collaborated over the past five years with neighborhood groups, community organizations, local businesses, nonprofits, schools and churches to reshape the narrative of Flint. “Amid the water crisis and the release of a show on a popular streaming platform, the hard work of community members and local businesses was often overshadowed by the challenges Flint residents faced. Through numerous community discussions, the idea for the Flint Mural Project was born.
Filipe Oritz
“The project’s aim is to transform Flint’s image from one of crisis to one of vibrant art, highlighting the incredible work being done in our neighborhoods and downtown … This book celebrates the dedication of FPAP staff, volunteers, board members, community members and many talented artists. Your support is crucial to continuing this transformative project.”
