Paint it Forward Mural Program
The Paint it Forward Mural Program celebrates the talented artists who are helping transform Downtown Lenoir into a vibrant outdoor gallery. Through public art, this initiative aims to inspire creativity, tell our community's story, and create welcoming spaces for residents and visitors alike. Explore the artist bios below to learn more about the individuals whose vision and talent are bringing color, culture, and creativity to Downtown Lenoir.
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Margaret Moose
Margaret Moose is a local artist who works in
several mediums including oils and tattooing.
She is a native North Carolinian and graduated from
the University of N.C. at Greensboro.
She is also an author of several science fiction books
and has a tattoo shop and art gallery
in Newton, N.C., Studio Tattoo and Gallery.
Ray Montes (Arkaydez)
Ray Montes, also known as Arkaydez, is a multidisciplinary
artist working in several mediums. Born in Texas, Arkaydez
developed his artistic style through two decades of creative
growth and cultural immersion in Denver, CO, between
2000 and 2020. Deeply influenced by graffiti culture,
skateboarding, comics, and manga, his work blends bold
movement, layered storytelling, and vibrant color palettes
that reflect both urban energy and personal expression.
Arkaydez’s artistic style is rooted in the raw authenticity of
graffiti art while embracing the imaginative worlds found in
comic books and Japanese manga. His paintings often
balance chaos and structure, capturing moments of motion,
individuality, and emotion that invite viewers to look deeper.
Through spray paint and acrylic, he creates pieces that feel
alive, bridging fine art techniques with the rebellious spirit of graffiti culture.
Now calling Lenoir home, Arkaydez is passionate about
contributing beauty and creativity to the community through
public art and gallery work. He is actively seeking
opportunities both locally and abroad to create murals,
participate in exhibitions, and collaborate with
organizations that value impactful visual storytelling.
Through every project, Arkaydez aims to spark intrigue,
inspire connection, and leave a lasting impression on the
spaces and people his art reaches.
Connect with Ray:
Instagram: @arkaydez
FB: Ray Montes
Website: https://raymontes.com/
Shop: contact artist for inquiry or check out Tybrisa Books for one-of-a-kind
pieces and framed prints for sale.
Samantha Svea
Samantha Svea is a young artist and children's book
author from Lenoir, North Carolina. She is the creator of
the Spunky children's book series and draws inspiration
from vintage, folk, and mid-century design. Her artwork
combines whimsical storytelling with playful creativity,
bringing a sense of joy and imagination to her work.
In addition to creating visual art, Samantha has
self-published multiple books and enjoys exploring new
ways to share creativity with her community.
Her books can be found on Amazon by searching Spunky
by Samantha Svea.
Connect with Samantha:
All Social Media Platforms: @samanthasvea
Shop: samanthasvea.threadless.com
Use code HelloBigBlue for 10% off.
Chris Beaver
Chris Beaver is a visual artist originally from Gastonia, NC,
but has lived in Lenoir, NC, for the past 7 years. He fell in
love with art at a young age and has been creating art ever
since he could hold a pencil. Chris has worked to create
his own unique style over the years, which often features
smooth color blends and varying line thicknesses.
His work generally spans from realism to surrealism and
he is well-versed in many media, including paint, ink,
pencil, and clay to name a few. He is also an accomplished
pumpkin carver. Chris has a degree in fine art, has won
many art awards, and has been commissioned to do
almost every type of painting imaginable.
