Mural Unveiling and Press Conference

On Wednesday, September 13th at 9am, the Kehrein Center for the Arts will host an unveiling and dedication ceremony for a new mural created by Chicago-based artist Barrett Keithley. The Kehrein Center opened in the spring of 2019, after the completion of a $5 million renovation project to the theater connected to Catalyst Circle Rock primary and middle school. In the summer of 2022, the Kehrein Center became an independent foundation, with core values dedicated to providing a place for community edification, entrepreneurial sustainability, human expression, and educational incubation to the Austin and greater West side community.

“In a lot of Black neighborhoods you don’t get a chance to see your face on images or art that represents you, that is magnified. For me, it’s important for any ethnic people to see themselves in beauty. That awakens your brilliance. That’s what I have always wanted to do, to show people that you’re big and you’re beautiful,” said Keithley, who is also a co-founder of Paint the City, a non-profit whose mission is to provide a platform for emerging artists of color.

Following the press conference, there will be a 10am conversation with the muralist and other artists.

Learn more about Barrett Keithley and his work here: Mural Unveiling & Press Conference to Celebrate Black Creativity

This program is partially supported by a grant from the Illinois Arts Council Agency.