Student Artwork Brightens Downtown Clinton as Part of Main Street Revitalization

Main Street Clinton is making visible progress in downtown Clinton, thanks to community-driven initiatives and fresh ideas. One recent success story combines civic pride, student talent, and a creative approach to revitalization.

Earlier this year, Main Street Clinton launched its Second Saturday Service Days, a volunteer-powered beautification effort aimed at sprucing up the downtown area. These events continue each month, with volunteers meeting at the Depot at 9:00 AM to help clean up, plant flowers, and tackle small improvement projects. The next service day is scheduled for Saturday, June 14th.

As part of the lead-up to Rhythm on the Rails earlier this month, volunteers took things a step further by organizing a student art contest that would fill vacant storefronts with color and inspiration.

Students from Clinton Middle School’s digital arts classes, led by teacher Mr. Brandon Hernandez, were invited to submit artwork reflecting the theme: “Clinton, the Middle of Everywhere.” The goal? Celebrate Clinton as a place where residents and visitors can dine, shop, and explore—all in one welcoming downtown.

The winning designs were transformed into vibrant banners and placed in several empty storefronts throughout downtown Clinton. The banners went up just before Rhythm on the Rails, and if you’ve strolled through the area recently, you may have already admired them—especially the standout display on the corner.

Student Winners

Emily Oliver, 6th Grade
Valerie Murillo, 6th Grade
Savanna Fountain, 7th Grade
Olivia Robinson, 7th Grade
Isabella Elizondo, 7th Grade
Mackay Sineath, 6th Grade
Andrew Bigham, 6th Grade
Jazlyn Cook, 8th Grade
Ava Wynne Castaneda, 8th Grade
Juan Cruz-Rios, 8th Grade
Lainey Jackson, 8th Grade
Sadie Addison, 6th Grade

Each banner adds a pop of creativity to Main Street while highlighting the talent of local students and the momentum of downtown Clinton’s transformation.

“We’re always looking for ways to get more people involved in reimagining downtown Clinton,” said Susan Tallman, Chair of Main Street Clinton. “This project was a perfect example of bringing together the community, the schools, and our vision to make downtown vibrant. These students should be proud—they’re part of shaping Clinton’s future.”

The banners will remain on display for the coming weeks. So, next time you’re in downtown Clinton, be sure to take a moment to enjoy the creativity and community spirit on full display.

For more on upcoming events and volunteer opportunities, follow Main Street Clinton on Facebook or visit Www.mainstreetclinton.org.