South Knoxville is becoming an outdoor gallery as two new murals take shape along the SoKno Rail Trail & Art Walk. The installations, funded by a $1 million gift from the Lawson Family Foundation, are part of a larger effort to turn a 1.5‑mile stretch of the trail into a destination for public art.
Whitney Herrington’s “Second Nature” at Landing Health
At the Landing Health building, Tennessee artist Whitney Herrington has painted Second Nature. The mural features a woman surrounded by two herons, flowing water and oversized dogwood blossoms—iconic symbols of East Tennessee’s spring landscape. One heron is in flight while the other remains still, creating a visual contrast between movement and quiet reflection.
Herrington, founder of Old Soul Mural Co., draws inspiration from nature, vintage graphics, music and the character of the communities she paints. Her work can be found in schools, restaurants, healthcare facilities and other public spaces across several states.
Key Detail’s Appalachian tribute at the William S. Trimble Co. building
New York‑based artist Key Detail (real name Kravtsov) is creating a mural that honors Appalachian culture and East Tennessee history. At the center of the composition a woman plays the mountain dulcimer, an instrument deeply tied to regional folk music and storytelling. The piece also references the area’s scenic beauty and musical traditions.
Originally from Minsk, Belarus, Key Detail brings an architectural background to his work, having completed more than 50 large‑scale murals across the United States, Europe and Asia. His style blends architectural precision, surrealism and imaginative storytelling.
Other art along the trail
The SoKno Art Walk will eventually feature six large‑scale murals, several sculptures, rail‑inspired features and landscape design. Existing works include Shiny Objects by Florida artist Naomi Haverland, which displays oversized fishing lures on the tower at Kern’s Bakery, and a botanical mural by Anna Charney. Two sculptures—Anywhere by Nathan Pierce of Missouri and Semaphore by Brian Ferriby of Michigan—are already installed.
Project timeline and partners
The larger SoKno Rail Trail project will extend 3.8 miles from Chapman Highway to Ijams Nature Center, with the Art Walk occupying the 1.5‑mile segment between Chapman Highway and Island Home. Legacy Parks Foundation is developing the project in partnership with the City of Knoxville, Gulf and Ohio Railway and Dogwood Arts, which is coordinating much of the artwork and artist selection. The trail is slated to open in late fall 2026, with additional artwork and updates expected as installations continue.
Why the murals matter
These public‑art projects bring together two of East Tennessee’s greatest assets: a stunning natural landscape and the creativity of artists who find inspiration in the region’s history and culture. By placing vibrant murals in everyday spaces, the project strengthens neighborhood identity, encourages community pride and offers residents and visitors a visual celebration of local heritage.
For more information about the SoKno Rail Trail & Art Walk, visit the Legacy Parks Foundation website.
Original reporting: Knox TN Today — read the source article.
