STEEP asks Fletcher council for support to pursue a Highway 25 mural

Karen Eve Bane, chair of the nonprofit Storytelling Education and Arts Programs (STEEP), asked the Fletcher Town Council to back a proposal to place a large vinyl mural in Fletcher, ideally on Highway 25 where it would get high visibility. "I imagine a beautiful mural in Fletcher welcoming people to this lovely community," Bane said, describing STEEP's model of employing local artists to create an original painting that is reproduced on a long-lasting vinyl banner.

Bane told council members STEEP has produced five murals in the county and that the group funds projects through grants (Community Foundation, Arts Council and private donors). She said vinyl reproductions typically last 20 to 25 years and are less costly than a full painted mural, which can reach the $15,000-$20,000 range for very large pieces. "We would like to apply for a grant on behalf of the community," Bane said, noting some application deadlines fall in July or August.

STEPP proposed themes that would reflect Fletcher's character—local music, the Feed and Seed venue, agricultural history, Main Street businesses and park activities—and said STEEP prefers images of activities rather than portraits of individuals. Bane asked the council for three pieces of support: a letter endorsing the project to strengthen grant applications, a council liaison to coordinate themes and community input, and limited assistance from public works with installing the vinyl banner if the project is funded. She also said STEEP would secure permission from private building owners and carry insurance for installation.

Council members asked practical questions about timing, whether a building commitment is required before applying for a grant, liability when public-works crews assist on private property and likely wall candidates (Feed and Seed and the Foam and Fabric building on Hendersonville Road were discussed). Bane said having a committed building improves grant prospects but is not strictly required at application time and that STEEP typically has about six months after an award to finalize a site.

Council members signaled support for the concept and agreed to draft a letter of support for use in grant applications. Council Member Andrew volunteered to be the liaison to STEEP to help refine imagery and contact building owners. Bane said STEEP would bring draft images for council review before printing and would aim for a ribbon-cutting roughly a year after funding is secured.

Next steps: council staff will draft a letter of support and share contact details for local stakeholders; STEEP will continue conversations with prospective building owners and pursue grant applications.