“Resilient Mural”
Painted with soft pastels on Bristol paper, this inclusive mural concept is based on open and detailed communications during consultation with Agricultural Extension Agents for Alleghany County, Cindy Atwood of the Alleghany Historical-Genealogical Society, Inc., and the American Folk life Center under Blue Ridge Parkway Folk Life Collection.
Each element has a special meaning that visually tells the story of agricultural history in Alleghany County, North Carolina. The following images visualize a small, yet brilliant window into a beautiful countryside and the generations of inspired farmers.
Listen to the story of the mural
Panel One features Luke Souther, who carries on the farming tradition. The New River is featured in the background. 
Panel Two shows hay harvesting and in the forefront- pollinators. 
Panel Three spotlights Virginia Van Hampton, an innovator in tobacco production and agriculture. 
Panel Four shows hay bailing on Evans Dairy Farm, pumpkins & vegetable production, honey bee stands and African American farmer, Sabe Choate, folk life subject from Sparta. 
Panel Five pictures the close connection of farmer to farming at the Evans Dairy Farm. 
Panel Six gives a long view perspective of an Alleghany farm, cattle, corn and grains. 
Panel Seven shows Lonnie Davis on the Davis Family Farm sharing knowledge with his son Duane. Lonnie Davis was considered a progressive and scientific farmer for his time. 
Panel Eight connects the Blue Ridge Parkway as part of Agritourism. Other pollinators are in the foreground and a Christmas tree farm in the background.
