Advance Gears Up For Community Day Of Painting

-The Boone EDC, the town of Advance and artist Anita Gordon is inviting the public—and the press to witness creativity, community, and collaboration in action during a Community Day of Painting on Monday, August 4, from 5:00–8:00 PM at Advance Park (ARC Park R/C). This event marks the highly anticipated launch of a public art installation in Advance as part of Boone County’s 180 in Color initiative—a vibrant mural project over a year in the making.

The Advance mural is a Boone County 180 in Color project, made possible through funding from READI 1.0 and a matching grant from the Jamestown Community Partnership. Together, these investments underscore the growing focus on rural placemaking, creative economies, and grassroots revitalization across Boone County.

Community members will have the opportunity to roll up their sleeves and leave their mark—no experience required. “This project is about more than paint,” said Jennifer Rubenstein, Vice President of Marketing and Communications at the Boone EDC. “It’s about celebrating the identity and resilience of small towns like Advance, and creating interactive, uplifting spaces that bring people together and build community pride.”

What to Expect:

• Live mural painting guided by professional artist Anita Gordon

• Community participation—open to all ages and skill levels

• Interactive designs that double as public photo ops

• Conversations, storytelling, and memory-sharing among neighbors

• A visual celebration of Advance’s history, businesses, and future

What to Bring:

Participants are encouraged to wear paint-friendly clothes, bring a water bottle, and share a favorite Advance memory or the name of a beloved local business to spark conversation with fellow painters. This is an open, come-as-you-are event—perfect for families, curious neighbors, and visitors alike. Whether you planned ahead or just happen to walk by, you’re invited to be a part of something bold and inspiring.