Representative from South Central Tennessee Tourism Association (SCTTA), Department of Tourism Development, Do More Art (DMA) nonprofit organization, The Tennessee Whiskey Trail, Fayetteville Lincoln County Chamber of Commerce and others gathered recently for a celebration of Fayetteville’s largest, permanent mural, “White Dog and the Spirit of the Process.” Artist Megan Lingerfelt was tasked by DMA of Tullahoma to create Fayetteville’s whimsical mural.

New signage was added to the mural during a large gathering at Carl Gleghorn’s building and business, Dragon Fly Gallery and Design located on Main Avenue South and Market Street. The signage draws attention to The Tennessee Whiskey Trail Mural Project initiative, which is a celebration of the history, craftsmanship and people who have shaped the story of Tennessee whiskey. It explains which organizations are involved in the project and how it benefits tourists and the communities.

The project is a collaboration among the Tennessee Distillers Guild and Tennessee Whiskey Trail, SCTTA and the Tennessee Department of Tourist Development. Additionally, the Fayetteville Lincoln County Chamber of Commerce sponsored the mural.

Ryan French, executive director of SCTTA, opened the ceremony. “The Tennessee Whiskey Trail Mural Project initiative is a celebration of the history, the craftsmanship and the incredible people who have shaped the story of Tennessee whiskey,” said French. “Tennessee Whiskey Country holds a truly special place in our state’s culture and economy, and it’s exciting to work alongside our communities to bring this story to life.”

Also at the ceremony were Melanie Beauchamb, assistant commissioner for the Department of Tourism and Development; Ashley Derossett, Middle Tennessee Division manager for the Department of Tourism and Kristin Luna, whose nonprofit organization DMA has worked with artists across Tennessee and the south to create approximately 75 murals throughout the state. “We do the logistics, wall preparation and provide the materials,” she said. The organization also writes grants and hires the artists who create the murals for communities.

“Murals have become a powerful tool for rural communities looking to enhance their sense of place, boost tourism and attract visitors,” stated Luna in a SCTTA post. “When done well, a single wall can evolve into a recognizable landmark – something people photograph, share and build travel plans around long after the paint dries.”

Following Fayetteville’s celebration, SCTTA, DMA and others met in Lynchburg and Tullahoma for their communities’ celebrations that afternoon.