YMCA of Virginia’s Blue Ridge and Roanoke Arts Commission Unveil New Mural at YMCA Express at Gainsboro

Published October 29, 2024

Roanoke, VA (October 29, 2024) – The YMCA of Virginia’s Blue Ridge, in collaboration with the City of Roanoke’s Arts Commission, proudly presents a new mural at the YMCA Express at Gainsboro. This vibrant work of public art honors both the individuals and the rich history of the YMCA and its deep-rooted connection to the Gainsboro community.

Created by local artists Bryce Cobbs and JC Stallings, the mural serves as a tribute to the Gainsboro neighborhood’s legacy, highlighting key figures and moments that have shaped both the YMCA and the community.

At the heart of the mural is A.L. Holland, a WWII veteran and pivotal figure in the YMCA’s local history. Holland’s contributions include starting the Father-Son Banquet in 1932, a tradition that provided local railroad fathers with the opportunity to bond with their sons. His story is interwoven with the community’s narrative and stands as a testament to the YMCA’s longstanding commitment to fostering connection and support.

The mural also celebrates significant milestones such as the founding of the first African American YMCA in 1928, the end of segregation at the Roanoke YMCA in 1964, and the continued progress symbolized by the creation of this mural in 2024.

“The intent of the mural is to help tell the story of the YMCA and its deep connection to the Gainsboro community,” said Jonathan Pait, Branch Executive Director of the YMCA Express at Gainsboro. “It represents not just our past but our ongoing commitment to serve and celebrate this community.”

“With these children that walk by or drive by that inspires them to make a change in the community. It was a very important way that the YMCA was able to give back to the community and the community was able to give back to the YMCA,” said mural artist Bryce Cobbs.

Artist JC Stallings added, “As an educator at Lucy Addison Middle School we ‘Celebrate The Faces’ through art projects that keep the spirit of historic Gainsboro alive. Students and their families were able to follow the steps that professional artists take to express and enliven the community through art. They take a lot of pride that their art teacher is involved in the community and helped to record this legacy. We received endless honks and shout-outs on a daily basis from Gainsborough residents, friends, faculty, clergy members, and curious strangers who took the time to support the process.”

This project was funded through the City of Roanoke’s Percent for Art Program with support from City of Roanoke Artist in Residence Jon Murrill in an ongoing strategy to connect and beautify the community through community-driven and artist-led public art projects.