New Kroger Store Unveils Mural by Local Artist Ann Steverson
The grand opening of the new Kroger grocery store at Highway 72 East on County Line Road on Wednesday, September 13, marked the unveiling of a new mural by local artist Ann Moeller Steverson. The 24-foot-wide by 8-foot tall mural “resembles the most joyous and most beautiful aspects of the Madison community,” the company said in a release, “Madison’s iconic downtown clock and the variety of butterflies that fly through the city and state.”
Store leader Calley White described the mural as “dedicated to finding joy in our city.”
The company worked with Arts Huntsville on the artist selection process. Over a dozen talented local artists applied for the project. Kroger narrowed the pool down to three finalists during a blind selection process, and Kroger invited Steverson as well as accomplished local artists Robert Bean and Susie Garrett to submit proposals for the final stage of the process.
“Selecting a final artist is always difficult in any project,” said Jennifer Johnson, Public Art Program Manager at Arts Huntsville. “Ultimately, Kroger chose Ann, as her butterfly proposal stunningly captured the beauty of nature. Kroger felt this would be a welcome addition to the community.”
Steverson began work on the project in May in her studio, #202 in Lowe Mill ARTS & Entertainment. She painted the murals on several large panels, which the store’s construction team attached to the wall. The artist then applied finishing touches on site late this summer.
The finalists were given the opportunity to propose up to three options each for Kroger to choose. Ann also proposed options of a starry sky or sunset, but ultimately Kroger most resonated with Butterflies of Madison.
“This mural features a variety of our local butterflies,” stated Steverson in her proposal. “Set against a vibrant blue sky and lush greenery, the whimsically oversized butterflies can inspire visitors to look for their real-life counterparts in their day-to-day outings. Joyous and family-friendly, this mural will brighten the viewers’ day.”
The mural is located in the front of the store and is visible to shoppers as they enter. It has already become a popular spot for photo ops.
This is not the first time the store has supported local art in North Alabama. In 2016, through a similar process, the company selected Logan Tanner to install a mural in their store on Wall Triana.
The grand opening of the new Kroger store was a success. The well-attended event featured special guests, live music, and giveaways. The new Kroger store is located at at 8855 Highway 72 East, near County Line Road.