A new Golden Blocks mural honoring Black service members was unveiled Thursday during a community ribbon cutting ceremony on Laney-Walker. The mural, located on the S.O.A.R. building, is a vibrant tribute to African American service members who helped shaped American history from 1898 to 1945.
The artwork, titled “Heroes at Home and Abroad,” was painted by Augusta artist Theron Cartwright and highlights Black veterans tied to the Spanish-American War, World War I, and World War II. The project is a collaboration between the Augusta Housing and Community Development Department, the Greater Augusta Arts Council and the Lucy Craft Laney Museum of Black History.
Commissioner Johnson praises the Golden Blocks initiative
District 1 Commissioner Jordan Johnson praised the ongoing Golden Blocks initiative and its role in keeping Augusta’s cultural history visible.
“Yes, I’m going to continue to support public art because public art is our superpower,” Johnson said. “It tells our story, and any chance that we get to tell our story and utilize the hands of our community to do so, I think it’s a great opportunity.”
He added that the mural reflects the contributions of African Americans to the nation. “There is no American history without us, and I think this wall says that.”
Theron Cartwright shares the reason behind the mural
Artist Theron Cartwright, who painted the mural, reflected on why projects like this matter to him personally.
“I come from a big family… and my mom and dad never made us feel forgotten,” Cartwright said. “Cherishing the thing, even when it’s not always appreciated, is why I enjoy doing projects like these.
‘Old and new’ come together on the Golden Blocks
Greater Augusta Arts Council Gallery & Public Art Director Heather Dunaway said the mural represents the blending of past and present, especially as young JROTC cadets stood alongside the Buffalo Soldiers reenactors during the ceremony.
“It’s really special… to see the old and the new together,” Dunaway said. “I think this mural accurately represents the blending of all of our stories coming together.”
