Floral Murals by Paulina Guajardo & Janna Watson (730 Locust Street)

This episode features two lovely floral murals at 730 Locust Street located in the historic 7th Avenue District.

This area of Hendersonville is undergoing a tremendous revitalization. For many years the area has been dominated by industrial buildings and warehouses that were strategically positioned near the main railroad terminal and depot. During those times, it was not a destination for locals or visitors who didn’t have some business to transact there. But that has been changing rapidly over the past few years as new businesses catering to the general public have sprung up. Restaurants, bakeries, art galleries, bars, breweries, and even a distillery have opened to make the neighborhood a must-see stop on a trip to downtown Hendersonville.

The building at 730 Locust Street used to be the home of the Old Lab Designs and Mercantile, a beautiful and unique shop that sold unusual gifts for men and women alike. The owner was Janna Watson and she had a vision of bringing rich texture to the streets of this section of town, not only in the items she sold in the store, but also the store building as well. When Janna first moved in, the building epitomized that industrial look of the area, rough and crumbling red brick walls with very little inviting character. She was determined to spruce it up and make it much more beautiful and help the area become more inviting.

So she decided to adorn both sides of the building with murals. She commissioned a talented artist from Miami, Paulina Guajardo to paint the murals. Paulina was able to finish it all very quickly over two short trips. Paulina is an up-and-coming artist originally from Mexico. Her mother is a renowned Mexican artist in her own right.

Unfortunately, Janna’s shop has not survived the difficult economic times of late and she was forced to close. But her vision lives on in the 7th Avenue District and the building is now the home of the Art Place Gallery, a local art studio with the mission of inspiring creativity and fostering community engagement.But we feature Paulina and Janna to guide us through the murals and tell us about the inspiration for them.

Paulina and Janna will guide us through the murals and tell us about the inspiration for them.