One of the many spectacular parts of living along the Blue Ridge is the fantastic creativity of such a vibrant, beautiful land and community. At a school that emphasizes exploring multiple disciplines, many of Roanoke College’s students are part of that creative community, whether through their studies or hobbies. This semester, I wanted to see what students like that could learn from other local artists. Starting this week off, I interviewed Jon Murrill, a muralist with many local pieces you may have seen, including ones on Main Street!
Q: What are your primary artistic mediums, and what specifically draws you to them?
A: I am a full-time muralist based in Virginia. As a muralist, I work primarily with both latex acrylic paints and spray cans. The spray cans I use range in brands; however, my preferred can of choice is Montana Gold from Germany.
Q: What parts of your life have most fostered your creativity?
A: As a young artist, my influences came from realism and hyperrealism. I was passionate about the more technical side of my work and how I could achieve as much detail as possible in my charcoal portraiture. As I shifted my work towards realism, I found a much different edge to what inspired me. My creativity now thrives from how I see art can impact public spaces. This new sight is fostered by other professional muralists from all over the world. In my opinion, the growing industry of public art is at the forefront of our most current art movements all over the globe.
Q: How did you come to the Roanoke area?
A: I was raised in the Roanoke area, and family and friends have made Southwest Virginia my home. I am always grateful for the massive support system I have today, both personally and professionally. Living in the Blue Ridge is so inspiring visually, and I draw on those influences daily in my body of work.
Q: What are you working on artistically currently, and what are the next steps on your bucket list?
A: Currently, I am lining up my calendar for murals throughout 2026. Each year, the wintertime is a great opportunity for me to reset prior to another 9-10 months of active painting and traveling. My goals for the future are to continue to grow public art in our region while also traveling to meet new muralists and paint new walls in different environments.
Q: What is your advice to young artists?
A: My advice to any young artist is to take risks and to be brave enough to try their hand at new materials and practices. You never know what you might be good at or how capable you are until you try something new. I had no idea I would be a full-time muralist 5 years ago. Don’t wait to take the plunge, just get out there and create!
Maggie Raker
Culture, Wellness & Lifestyle Editor
