A retaining wall near the new Clay County Courthouse will soon become a colorful tribute to the community, thanks to the vision of local artist Brittany Stone.
Stone, 32, is a lifelong Clay County resident who currently serves the community as a 911 dispatcher. She has previously worked as an EMT with both Clay and Lizemores Ambulance Services and deeply enjoys serving the public.
“I genuinely enjoy being the voice, or the hand, that helps them in emergencies,” said Stone.
But, while public service has long been an important part of her life, art has always been her greatest passion. Stone believes that public art can inspire pride in the places people call home and she is willing to take the lead. Recently, she began pursuing larger-scale artwork and murals right here in Clay County.
“I shared a Facebook post looking for a business or property owner who might be interested in having a mural painted. My goal wasn’t just to build a business, it was to bring more art into our community and hopefully encourage others to see what’s possible in small-town West Virginia.”
The opportunity came when Clay County Commissioner Joyce Johnson saw examples of Stone’s work and invited her to create a design for the retaining wall behind the new courthouse. Stone developed a concept that celebrates the community and showcases the natural beauty of Clay County.
The courthouse mural will be Stone’s first public mural in Clay and marks the beginning of what she hopes will become many more community art projects throughout the area.
“I’m incredibly grateful for the opportunity,” she said. “This project has only made me more passionate about creating artwork that reflects our local identity. Whether it’s murals, signs, or logos, I enjoy designing pieces that tell the story of our community and the people who live here.”
Construction on the mural is expected to begin soon, giving residents another reason to look forward to a vibrant new addition to downtown Clay.
After work on the mural is complete, Stone plans to continue working with local businesses, organizations, and community groups to transform blank walls into artwork that reflects the character, history, and spirit of Clay County.
