Bruce Frankel has worn many hats in Kernersville — including that of a champion for public art.

In a recent interview for our podcast, he was asked what drew him to a downtown mural initiative led by local artist and former educator Christina Parrish.

“I heard a presentation at the Chamber of Commerce, and I said, ‘I support this effort,’” Frankel recalled.

Describing murals as more than merely decorative, he emphasized the practical impact of Parrish’s proposal, adding:

“Public art is one of the best ways to keep pedestrian traffic here in town. People come for the shopping and the entertainment, but the arts and culture are an important feature that really draws people.” 

In an interview earlier this year about her project, Parrish told Scope News:

“When you add murals, you can see up to a 7% increase in foot traffic and a 12% increase in sales on whatever building that mural is on — just because people are drawn to art. But aside from that, there is an aesthetic enjoyment to having art in your community.”

Even though progress has stalled for now, Frankel and Parrish are among those who insist the public art initiative shouldn’t be abandoned.

“You want to promote a destination?” Frankel asked. “Murals are awesome. Think about all the people you see go by murals, take pictures, selfies, put them on Facebook. It helps the town become seen as a more vibrant destination for art lovers and visitors.”

On an even more practical level, it all comes down to money. Since sponsors pay the artists for their time and talent, there’s no cost to taxpayers.

“You’re talking about a way to get incredible quality art … and the town doesn’t have to pay for it,” he added. “That’s the amazing part.”

But the project has hit a snag, which we’ll discuss in the next installment of our three-part “The Writing On The Wall” series. The remaining installments will be published throughout this week. Follow Scope News on social media for our full coverage.

If you’d like to add your voice to this ongoing public debate, share this article on social media or reach out to editor@scopenewsonline.com.

Hear our full conversation below:

Copyright 2025 Informed Media Group LLC. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed without express written consent.