August 29, 2024 [Gwinnett County, Georgia]— Sugarloaf Community Improvement District (CID), in partnership with the Hudgens Center for Art & Learning, announces the completion of the Synchronicity mural by JONESY at Sugarloaf Parkway and the I-85 Underpass. Spanning almost 11,000 square feet, the mural is one of largest in the metro-Atlanta area. “JONESY’s mural is a gift to our community and a testament to the power of art in public spaces,” said Gwinnett County Chairwoman Nicole Love Hendrickson. “Synchronicity serves as a beautiful reminder of the harmony that can still be found even in the busiest places, reaffirming Gwinnett's identity as a vibrantly connected community.” This vibrantly patterned piece was designed and executed by lead muralist, Krista M. Jones (aka JONESY). “The title is based on the idea that there is unity in diversity within the universe and meaningful coincidences can lead to connection and remarkable outcomes,” says Jones. Synchronicity also represents the multiple “happenstance” connections between the artist and project partners that allowed the project to come to fruition. Sugarloaf CID’s project partner is The Hudgens Center for Art & Learning, who first connected Jones to the CID and provided invaluable insight into the project. “I believe public art has the power to transform sterile spaces into invitations for us to be present and to engage. It can bridge gaps between our differences and provide connections that we might not have experienced otherwise. My ultimate hope is that the work I do offers joy.” – Krista M. Jones
The mural concept comes from the artist’s “FORMATIONS” series, which examines how vibrant color, elements of nature, and sweeping patterns can transform sterile urban spaces into moments of joy and connection. Jones was inspired by Gwinnett County’s tagline of “Vibrantly Connected” when designing this piece, as shown by the continuous and diverse flow of bright, floral-like patterns interchanging along the wall.
Sugarloaf CID Board Chairman, Brand Morgan, states, “The Synchronicity mural serves as the gateway to the Sugarloaf CID and a welcome for everyone who enters Gwinnett's Downtown. It has taken years of planning and coordination to complete this project, and we appreciate all the partners who helped to make this project possible.”
The public reaction to the mural is extremely positive, with many community members remarking that it brightens their daily commutes and that they are excited to see more public art projects in the Sugarloaf area. From the Board Members of Sugarloaf CID’s original idea to mural completion, this project represents over two years of hard work, including preparation like replacement of the underpass lighting (in partnership with Gwinnett County), project permitting with Georgia DOT, pressure washing the wall, and priming the wall.
Project sponsors and their financial contribution amounts for the mural include Gwinnett Creativity Fund (with support from Gwinnett County and Explore Gwinnett, $32,500), 12Stone Church ($10,000) and Georgia Power ($5,000).
ABOUT SUGARLOAF CID:
The Sugarloaf Community Improvement District (CID) was formed in 2016 to ensure the long-term success of Gwinnett County’s premier business and entertainment district. The CID has 7% of Gwinnett County’s jobs and is home to major destinations including the Gas South District and Sugarloaf Mills. Through local, state and regional partnerships, the Sugarloaf CID works to make sure the district remains connected, safe and attractive for businesses and visitors alike.
ABOUT THE ARTIST:
Krista M. Jones, also known as JONESY, is a contemporary artist, based in Atlanta, Georgia. She holds a Bachelor of Fine Arts from Columbus State University. She is a multiple grant recipient and her canvas works have been featured in exhibitions throughout the United States, including a recent solo exhibition at the Hudgens Center for Art & Learning. She has received public art commissions from notable clients such as the City of Atlanta Mayor's Office of Cultural Affairs, the City of Atlanta Department of City Planning, the City of Chamblee, The Hudgens Center for Art & Learning, the City of Doraville, Mill Creek Residential, Jon Ossoff for Senate, Sugarloaf CID, Atlanta Beltline, Inc., Metropolitan Atlanta Rapid Transit Authority (MARTA), Livable Buckhead, Path Foundation, and Living Walls, the City Speaks.
Synchronicity mural was designed by JONESY and installed with the help of assistant artists Joe Dreher, Muhammad Suber, and Angela Bortone.
Upcoming Projects: Midtown Bike Lane Barrier Mural project by JONESY, commissioned by and Atlanta Department of Transportation, in partnership with the City of Atlanta Mayor’s Office of Cultural Affairs will be installed at Piedmont Park and 10 Street in Fall 2024.
More info on the Artist: jonesyartatl.com
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