New Public Art Mural Installed at the Kemper Street Amtrak Station

The City of Lynchburg’s Office of Economic Development & Tourism, with local artist Elizabeth Gray, has installed a new mural at the Kemper Street Amtrak Station in Lynchburg. The mural, LYH Loves You, is located at an existing retaining wall adjacent to the railway and will now showcase a welcoming message for Amtrak passengers, visitors and residents to enjoy while traveling to and from LYH.

“Public art and beautification efforts help attract new visitors to the City of Lynchburg,” said Marjette Upshur, Director of Economic Development & Tourism. “Every day the LYH Amtrak station transports hundreds of visitors, business travelers, college students and residents – which makes a huge impact on our restaurants, retail, attractions and lodging partners.” 

The project was funded in partnership with the Virginia Tourism Corporation and serves to increase beautification, public art, and marketing efforts for the City of Lynchburg. After a public call for artists, Elizabeth Gray’s design was selected for the installation. 

“It means the world to me to be able to work with local business owners and now the City of Lynchburg to help communicate their vision and get more eyes on their incredible spaces,” said mural artist Elizabeth Gray. “I’ve been a resident of Lynchburg since I was ten years old, and now being able to see my artwork on a large scale is incredibly fulfilling. I’m so grateful for the opportunity to add more color and public art to this city.” 

According to the Virginia Passenger Rail Authority, between July 2022 and June 2023, more than 60,000 people boarded or got off the train at Kemper Street station. “Train stations are the gateways to any community,” said DJ Stadtler, Executive Director of the Virginia Passenger Rail Authority. “The mural project at Kemper Street Station could be used as a model for other stations around the Commonwealth.  It is a great way to welcome our Amtrak Virginia passengers as they arrive in  Lynchburg.” 

To see the mural in person, please visit 825 Kemper Street, Lynchburg.