Members of the National Art Honor Society from Greeneville High Thursday were back on the scene of the mural they painted earlier this year , but this time to repair what vandals damaged overnight.
Greeneville Police continue their investigation in the vandalism of the mural at the Church Street and Bernard Avenue intersection.
The mural of notable women of the area is located street level below the Frontier Health Church Street Pavilion. It was painted earlier this year by National Art Honor Society students at Greeneville High in conjunction with the Greeneville Woman’s Club.
Before the painting the students studied potential women to be featured on the mural.
On Thursday however, the mural stood desecrated by vandals, with images of the women being defaced, and vulgar language also written on the wall around the mural.
Anyone with possible information of the person or persons involved in the vandalism may call Greeneville Police at 423-639-7111.
MAYOR COMMENDS STUDENTS FOR THEIR EFFORTS
This morning, Mayor Cal Doty issued this second statement on the matter, commending the students for their efforts.
“Last night, the Greeneville High School art students who created the mural on the Frontier Health wall at the corner of West Bernard Avenue and East Church Street returned to restore the artwork after it was vandalized earlier this week.
I want to express my sincere appreciation for these students, whose resilience, talent, and commitment to our community are truly commendable. Their willingness to repair what was damaged speaks volumes about their character. I have invited them to attend a future Greeneville City Council meeting so that we can recognize them and thank them in person for their contributions.
As I stated previously, I fully support the Greeneville Police Department’s efforts to identify those responsible and pursue all appropriate criminal charges and restitution.”
MAYOR DOTY ADDRESSES VANDALISM
Thursday afternoon , Greeneville Mayor Cal Doty issued the following statement.
“Sometime before the morning of July 16, this mural was intentionally defaced with red spray paint containing profanity and other offensive markings. This deliberate destruction is unacceptable. This was more than damage to a wall, it was an act of disrespect toward the Greeneville High School art students who dedicated their time, talent, and creativity to bring something meaningful for our community.
The actions of these vandals do not reflect the values of Greeneville. When public art is vandalized, the damage extends beyond the physical surface. It discourages the students, volunteers, and community members who work hard to make Greeneville a better place.
To our student artists, know that your work matters, and your community stands behind you. I have already heard from many concerned citizens who are eager to support you in the restoration of the artwork.
I fully support the Greeneville Police Department’s efforts to identify those involved and pursue all appropriate criminal charges and restitution.
Anyone with information about this incident is encouraged to contact the Greeneville Police Department at (423) 639-7111.”
