Clay Center, Kansas – The small town of Clay Center, Kansas (pop. 4,000), has once again put
itself on the map for its remarkable public art scene. The mural “Prairie Thunder”, painted by
artist Christian Stanley, has been named one of the Top 50 new murals in the world by Street Art
Cities in their annual “Best Of” Awards. This recognition places the mural among an elite group
of international artworks and highlights Clay Center’s emergence as a destination for public art.
As one of the finalists, the mural will contend for the 2024 International Mural of the Year.
“Prairie Thunder,” a 3,800-square-foot depiction of Kansas’s state animal, the
American buffalo, set against a backdrop of dramatic prairie skies and Flint Hills landscapes,
was unveiled in May 2024. This mural is not only a celebration of Kansas’s natural beauty, but
also a testament to the power of community-driven initiatives. It stands as one of just three
American murals selected as finalists this year, joining murals from Knoxville, Tennessee, and
New York City.
About Street Art Cities and Their Awards
Street Art Cities is the world’s largest street art community, dedicated to documenting and
promoting street art across the globe. Founded in 2016, the platform has grown exponentially,
now featuring over 66,000 artworks in more than 1,800 cities across 107 countries. Their mission
is to connect street art enthusiasts, artists, and communities, fostering a global appreciation for
street art and murals.
Each year, Street Art Cities hosts the “Best Of” Awards, celebrating the most outstanding murals
created worldwide. The selection process involves both an expert jury and community voting,
ensuring a diverse representation of artistic excellence. These awards highlight the creativity and
cultural significance of street art, bringing international attention to artists and their work.
Nominations are sourced from passionate art enthusiasts, local communities, and the platform’s
extensive network of city ambassadors. Winners are selected based on public votes and expert
input, ensuring a balance between community engagement and artistic excellence.
Vote for “Prairie Thunder”
The Street Art Cities “Best Of” Awards invite the public to vote for their favorite murals.
Community members and art enthusiasts can support the Kansas mural “Prairie Thunder” by
casting their vote online from January 1 to January 25, 2025.
A Mural Movement: Transforming Clay Center
The recognition of “Prairie Thunder” shines a spotlight on A Mural Movement, a grassroots
group of local volunteers dedicated to revitalizing Clay Center through public art. Since 2020, A
Mural Movement has spearheaded the creation of more than 30 professional murals, turning the
town into an outdoor gallery and fostering a sense of pride and community.
As highlighted by TravelKS.com, “What shocks visitors when they come to Clay Center is how
vibrant and alive the art scene is. Throughout the town are beautiful and picturesque art murals
as part of the city’s Mural Movement.” These murals have drawn visitors from across Kansas
and beyond, boosting tourism and enhancing Clay Center’s reputation as a destination for art and
culture.
Christian Stanley, who also created the 2022 mural “Sunflower State of Mind” in Clay Center,
expressed his gratitude for the community’s support. “Clay Center is like no other in its
appreciation for public art. It’s been an honor to create something so meaningful here,” he said.
C.Stanley Creative LLC is made up of a husband and wife team (Christian and Jessica). Painting
in Clay Center was a valued opportunity for the pair, as Jessica’s family is from Central Kansas.
Visit Clay Center
Clay Center’s commitment to public art and cultural enrichment makes it a must-visit destination
for travelers seeking unique experiences in Kansas and the Midwest.
- Follow A Mural Movement on Facebook and Instagram for updates and details.
