Painting a Safer Street
Community Art on Antioch Pike
By Joe Mayes, Projects + Operations Director
2 min read: A community-led mural on Antioch Pike transformed the area outside Cosecha Garden and Wright Middle School into a safer, more vibrant streetscape celebrating local spirit and collaboration.
On October 31, 2025, a vibrant community vision came to life on Antioch Pike with the completion of a stunning ground mural. This tactical urbanism project transformed an ordinary section of the roadway outside Cosecha Garden into a celebration of local spirit and safety, demonstrating the powerful impact of collaborative design.
Concept for buffer zone art by Leah Sumuelson
Community and Collaboration
This project was a true partnership, bringing together various stakeholders dedicated to enhancing the Glencliff neighborhood. The effort was spearheaded by artist Leah Sumuelson, who worked closely with the Glencliff Neighborhood organization, the Civic Design Center, and NDOT (Nashville Department of Transportation). The project applicant, Mandy Spears, assisted with every aspect of the project and served as the project manager.
The mural's design and installation were a deeply community-driven effort. Over the course of three days, neighbors, local residents, and enthusiastic students from Wright Middle School volunteered their time and energy to paint the large-scale artwork. This hands-on participation fostered a sense of ownership and pride among those who live and work near Antioch Pike.
Examples of the detailed cardboard stencils that Leah created for the community members to use to realize the mural
Safety and Celebration
Located strategically outside Cosecha Garden and Wright Middle School, the mural serves a dual purpose. It is a striking work of public art and a key component of a safety installation where tires have been used to create a physical barrier protecting pedestrians and cyclists from traffic. This creative application of tactical urbanism effectively slows traffic and enhances non-vehicular safety along Antioch Pike.
Ultimately, this installation is a dedicated effort to beautify this community, creating a more welcoming and engaging streetscape. Beyond aesthetics, the mural acts as a lively fixture that celebrates Wright Middle School and its students, recognizing their importance to the neighborhood and honoring their contributions to the project's success. The completed mural stands as a testament to what can be achieved when community passion meets thoughtful design.
The final touches of the Mural were completed on Halloween during an Open Streets Block party hosted by the Glencliff Neighborhood
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