Fires, demolition and decay aren’t the only things visitors see when they come into Hinton. As old buildings come down other buildings are being renovated or serve as canvases for artists. Stunning murals promoting Hinton’s railroad heritage or promoting businesses in Historic Courthouse Square and community painting livens up walls along alleys throughout town. Several murals, painted by children, to other artistic expressions in coordinated painted quilts bring color and imagination to this once booming railroad town. Some murals are designed to convey messages. During the week beginning September 14, a new one was added to the nearly dozen different large works of art around town. Candace Harless is Summers County Prevention and Recovery Coalition Coordinator. Harless says part of prevention is changing the environment to end stigma and give a new perspective of our community. The mural shown above was also painted to present some wonderful resources such as Be Kind, Volunteer WV, the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline, 844 Help 4 WV ( addiction and mental health hotline) and of course, the Summers County Prevention and Recovery Coalition.
