Explore the art and history found in the streets of New Bern with the Art Walk. This self-guided tour lets you see beautiful murals and public art installations celebrating the city’s heritage, from its early days to key cultural moments.
Understand the significance of the Art Walk, its historical background, tips for your visit, and must-see murals that reflect the artistic expression and spirit of New Bern.
Whether you’re a local or a visitor, this guide will help you enjoy your artistic journey through downtown New Bern.
What is the Art Walk New Bern?
The Art Walk New Bern is a lively self-guided tour in downtown New Bern, North Carolina, offering a rich cultural experience. This walking tour allows art lovers to explore the city’s artistic heritage by highlighting local artists, public spaces, and their exceptional work.
With many historic murals and public art installations, the Art Walk promotes community engagement and celebrates local culture, playing a key role in New Bern’s tourism. As you follow the art trail, you’ll find mural locations that display the artistic expression, street art, and history of this charming city.
Why is the Art Walk New Bern Important?
The Art Walk New Bern is a key element of the community’s cultural heritage, boosting tourism and local pride through its lively visual arts and street art displays.
This event highlights the work of regional artists and encourages community involvement and interactive art experiences. Its impact goes beyond aesthetics, acting as a starting point for art events and exhibitions that enhance local culture and support art advocacy and art education.
By joining the Art Walk, both visitors and residents help build a shared memory and appreciation for artistic expression and visual storytelling in New Bern.
What is the History Behind the Murals?
The murals in New Bern showcase the city’s history and community stories through art. Each mural highlights a part of New Bern’s history, created by talented artists inspired by local culture and events.
These public art projects enhance the cityscape and serve as visual storytelling, preserving the community’s shared memories. By participating in these projects, the murals celebrate New Bern’s historical milestones and encourage a greater appreciation for art history and mural painting among residents and visitors.
Over time, the murals have adapted to significant events like 2018’s Hurricane Florence, which led to mural projects focused on revitalization, artistic collaboration, and healing. Local artists and writers collaborated to create themes of resilience and hope, turning walls into canvases of renewal. Their work not only displays artistic talent but also invites community participation, encouraging discussions about New Bern’s past and future.
This collaborative spirit highlights the ongoing dialogue between artists and the public, ensuring each mural connects with both historical context and modern relevance.
How to Prepare for the Art Walk New Bern?
Preparing for the Art Walk New Bern is an exciting way to experience a mix of art, culture, and history. To get the most out of your tour, consider these tips for an enhanced cultural experience while exploring scenic routes and artistic landscapes, art installations, and creative spaces.
First, review the art map to identify notable murals and landmarks on the trail. Also, plan family-friendly activities and photography spots to capture the vibrant essence of New Bern’s art scene and city exploration.
What Should You Wear?
When preparing for the Art Walk New Bern, wearing the right clothes is crucial for a good experience. Comfortable shoes are a must since you will be exploring outdoor art and walking through lively neighborhoods and walking paths.
Check the weather before you leave. Wear lightweight clothes for warm days or layers for cooler weather to stay comfortable while appreciating murals and the art scene around you. Proper attire lets you focus on the creativity and architectural beauty around you.
If rain is expected, bring a breathable, water-resistant jacket. On sunny days, wear a wide-brimmed hat and UV-protective clothes to stay safe. Carry a small backpack to hold water and snacks to stay hydrated and energized.
Choosing the right wardrobe can greatly enhance your enjoyment of the art and culture in New Bern.
What Should You Bring?
As you get ready for the Art Walk in New Bern, consider bringing a few key items to enhance your experience. A printed or digital art map will help you navigate mural locations and historical sites, so you don’t miss important art installations and interactive art along the way.
Bring a water bottle to stay hydrated, especially on warmer days, and a camera or smartphone to capture the impressive outdoor art. These items will make your tour more enjoyable and help you connect with New Bern’s local culture, historical sites, and art scene.
Additionally, pack some snacks to keep your energy up while exploring. A small notebook can be useful for jotting down thoughts and impressions of the artworks you see, allowing you to reflect on your experience and art appreciation later.
If you’re interested in New Bern’s history, a guidebook with local historical details and artistic context can deepen your appreciation. By preparing these items, you can ensure a day full of creativity, discovery, artistic diversity, and relaxation.
What are the Must-See Murals on the Art Walk New Bern?
The Art Walk in New Bern reveals a collection of murals that highlight the talents of local artists and the city’s artistic heritage.
The Art Walk in New Bern reveals a collection of murals that highlight the talents of local artists and the city’s artistic heritage, urban art, and local attractions.
Each mural tells a unique story, inviting art lovers and tourists to explore the cultural narratives of New Bern. Featuring impressive art installations and vibrant community expressions, these murals enhance the cityscape and offer an immersive experience for visitors, highlighting the city’s artistic heritage and urban landscape.
Highlighting key mural locations showcases New Bern’s artistic development and celebrates the craftsmanship and creativity thriving in its neighborhoods. These murals reflect the local economy, art promotions, and community engagement within the city.
1. “The Great Fire of New Bern” by Michael Brown
One notable mural on the Art Walk is “The Great Fire of New Bern” by artist Michael Brown, depicting a key event in the city’s history. This mural illustrates the dramatic effects of the fire that transformed New Bern and highlights resilience and community spirit.
Using vibrant colors and expressive brushwork, Brown captures the emotions tied to this historical event, making it a must-see for those interested in art and history.
The mural shows not only the physical damage caused by the fire but also the strong community spirit that rose afterward. Created in a contemporary style, it uses techniques like layering and bold outlines to enhance its visual impact. This artistic technique emphasizes the mural’s significance in New Bern’s history.
By combining historical storytelling with artistic creativity, the mural encourages viewers to connect with the past and appreciate New Bern’s evolution. Located on the Art Walk, it underscores the importance of public art, heritage walks, and cultural preservation, drawing in both art enthusiasts and history buffs.
2. “The History of New Bern” by Welton Marsland
Another captivating mural is ‘The History of New Bern’ by Welton Marsland, which visually narrates the city’s rich heritage. This mural intricately combines iconic events and figures that have shaped New Bern, reflecting the community’s identity and collective memory.
Marsland’s use of color and composition not only attracts art enthusiasts but also educates viewers about local culture, art education, and history.
Through vibrant imagery, the mural invites residents and visitors to explore New Bern’s past, highlighting themes of resilience, diversity, and innovation. Each brushstroke captures significant moments that resonate with the community, fostering a sense of pride, art appreciation, and belonging among locals.
The artistic elements convey emotions and stories that transcend time, making the mural a canvas of shared experience and visual storytelling.
Its placement encourages discussions among viewers, enhancing community engagement and connection, which is crucial for preserving the narrative of this historic city.
3. “The Birthplace of Pepsi-Cola” by David O. Norris
The mural “The Birthplace of Pepsi-Cola” by David O. Norris highlights New Bern’s unique place in pop culture history.
This artwork tells the story of the famous soft drink and reflects the region’s rich history, blending local tales with artistic expression. Norris uses bold colors and dynamic imagery to captivate viewers and evoke nostalgia for those familiar with Pepsi’s history and heritage.
The mural has been well-received, with many praising Norris’s skill in blending history and modern culture. For residents and visitors alike, this mural is a reminder of the city’s innovative spirit and historical significance, making it a valued community landmark and a must-see on the mural tour.
4. “The Life of Frederick Douglass” by Sarah Chaffee
Sarah Chaffee created the mural “The Life of Frederick Douglass” as a tribute to the civil rights leader and his lasting influence. This mural highlights artistic expression while reminding us of ongoing social justice struggles, art activism, and art significance.
Chaffee uses imagery and symbolism to encourage reflection on Douglass’s impact and the relevance of his message today.
Through vibrant colors and intricate details, the mural captures key moments in Douglass’s life, emphasizing themes of equality and resilience. The artist drew inspiration from Douglass’s writings and speeches, which remain significant in today’s discussions about racial injustice and enablement.
The community’s response has been overwhelmingly positive, with visitors expressing gratitude for engaging with such an important figure in American history. Conversations around the mural often connect to current social justice movements, underscoring that Douglass’s fight is an ongoing journey toward equity for all.
5. “The Civil Rights Movement in New Bern” by James White
James White’s mural, “The Civil Rights Movement in New Bern,” vividly depicts the city’s experience during a key period in American history. It captures the civil rights movement and highlights the local fight for equality and justice, using public art to educate and engage viewers, ensuring this important chapter in New Bern’s history is remembered. This mural is part of the Art Walk New Bern, a self-guided tour that allows visitors to immerse themselves in the area’s art history and cultural heritage.
The mural combines historical stories with vivid images, taking viewers back to a time of struggle, resilience, and victory. Each character and scene represents the memories and experiences of those who fought for their rights, making it a vital part of the community’s identity and contributing to the city’s artistic storytelling.
The bold colors and expressive forms draw attention and evoke emotions related to the activists’ challenges. This mural serves as a reminder of the ongoing journey toward equality, encouraging current and future generations to reflect on past lessons and continue the pursuit of justice through creative spaces and community engagement.
How Long Does the Art Walk New Bern Take?
The duration of the Art Walk New Bern depends on your pace and the number of mural locations you visit. Generally, a leisurely walking tour can take one to three hours, giving you plenty of time to enjoy the diverse art installations and explore local culture, including the vibrant art scene and historical sites.
You might also want to include stops at nearby attractions, restaurants, or cafes along the way to enhance your experience.
Where to Start the Art Walk New Bern?
Beginning the Art Walk New Bern is an exciting urban art exploration, and choosing the right starting point can make it even better. This self-guided tour offers artistic landscapes and interactive art experiences.
The downtown area is a popular choice, where you can find an art map showing different mural locations and public art installations. Many visitors start at local tourist information centers to learn more about the art scene and other nearby attractions, creating a great start to their artistic journey through the city.
What is the Best Route to Follow?
Choosing the best route for the Art Walk New Bern can improve your experience and help you see the most captivating art and scenic views. A suggested path starts in the downtown area, leading you through New Bern’s art district, highlighting key murals and public spaces. This route not only displays the community’s artistic talent through mural painting but also lets you enjoy the city’s historical and vibrant neighborhoods, showcasing architectural beauty.
Don’t miss the city murals on South Front Street, where local artists have depicted themes that resonate with both locals and visitors. Be sure to visit the Craven Arts Council and Gallery for rotating art exhibitions showcasing various art forms and encouraging art appreciation.
As you continue, the riverside parks offer beautiful views and a chance to pause and enjoy the landscape. This carefully planned route through New Bern invites participants to connect with both the historical and lively aspects of this charming coastal town, enhancing the visitor experience with regional art and cultural tourism.
What Other Attractions are Near the Art Walk New Bern?
Besides the captivating murals along the Art Walk New Bern, several nearby attractions allow visitors to further explore local culture and history, enriching the artistic journey with elements of cultural heritage and art significance.
Iconic sites like Tryon Palace offer insights into the region’s heritage, and the New Bern Farmer’s Market provides a taste of local foods and crafts.
Visiting these nearby attractions enriches the Art Walk experience by linking art lovers with the broader story of New Bern’s community identity and artistic diversity, promoting art and community connections.
1. Tryon Palace
Tryon Palace, near the Art Walk in New Bern, offers visitors a deep dive into North Carolina’s colonial history as the state’s first official capital. This restored mansion provides a look into the past and its role in American history, making it a great addition to the Art Walk experience.
The palace serves as a museum, displaying period furnishings and artifacts, and hosts events like reenactments, exhibitions, and seasonal festivals, bringing 18th-century history to life.
Guided tours take guests through the mansion and its gardens, revealing stories about its construction and the important figures who lived there.
Visiting Tryon Palace is more than a journey through history—it’s an opportunity to experience the rich heritage and culture of New Bern.
2. New Bern Farmer’s Market
The New Bern Farmer’s Market is a charming attraction near the Art Walk, featuring local vendors and fresh produce in a lively community setting. Visitors can browse various stalls with artisanal goods, seasonal fruits, vegetables, and crafts, making it a great stop for engaging with local culture.
This vibrant market enhances the Art Walk experience, fosters community engagement, and supports local artisans.
Besides fresh produce and handmade items, shoppers can find unique culinary treats like homemade jams, baked goods, and locally sourced honey, showcasing the region’s agriculture.
Live music performances and seasonal events further enrich the atmosphere, drawing families and individuals seeking a joyful outing. Community members come not just to shop, but to connect, share stories, and celebrate New Bern’s rich heritage.
The market offers an excellent opportunity for visitors to experience local traditions while enjoying the charm of this town.
3. New Bern Riverfront Convention Center
The New Bern Riverfront Convention Center is a central location for events and exhibitions, located near the Art Walk. It hosts activities ranging from art showcases to community events, making it a hub for cultural tourism in New Bern.
Engaging with events at the center enhances your experience of the city’s vibrant art scene and connects visitors with various artistic expressions and community projects.
The convention center is an important resource for local businesses and artists, giving them a platform to showcase their work to a wider audience. By hosting trade shows, conferences, and art fairs throughout the year, it supports economic growth and encourages collaboration among local entrepreneurs.
The versatile space also accommodates educational workshops, offering attendees opportunities to learn and network. As a key part of New Bern, the convention center embodies community engagement and cultural celebration, helping to preserve and promote the area’s rich heritage.
4. New Bern Civic Theatre
The New Bern Civic Theatre is a great addition to the attractions near the Art Walk, showcasing local talent with various performances. This community theater not only offers entertainment but also adds to the cultural experience of New Bern, allowing visitors to enjoy different forms of artistic expression.
With a lineup that includes classic plays, contemporary dramas, and seasonal musicals, the theater is a lively center for creativity in the region. Upcoming performances promise to engage audiences, making it a must-visit for those interested in the local arts scene.
By including these performances in their plans, visitors can enjoy a rich cultural experience, blending visual art with the excitement of live theater, ensuring a memorable visit to this charming town.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Art Walk New Bern?
Art Walk New Bern is a self-guided tour of the historic murals located throughout downtown New Bern. It is a unique way to explore the city’s rich history and vibrant art scene.
How do I access the tour?
The tour can be accessed by downloading the Art Walk New Bern app on your mobile device. It is also available as a printable map on our website.
Where can I find the murals?
The murals are scattered throughout downtown New Bern and can be found on buildings, alleyways, and even on the sidewalks. The map or app will provide the exact locations and descriptions of each mural.
Is there an admission fee for the tour?
No, the tour is completely free to access and enjoy. However, donations are greatly appreciated and help support the upkeep and maintenance of the murals.
Can I take photos of the murals?
Yes, absolutely! We encourage visitors to take photos of the murals and share them on social media using the hashtag #ArtWalkNewBern. Just be mindful of any private property and be respectful of the artists’ work.
Are the murals permanent?
Most of the murals on the tour are considered permanent, however, some may be replaced or modified over time. The app and map will provide updates on any changes to the murals.