One of the more interesting local Instagram accounts is entitled atlanta_street_art_map, with photos and locations of more than 1,900 murals across the city.

Mural in Gwinnetts downtown by artist Krista M. Jones

Credit: Krista M. Jones

The concentration of these vibrant works are mostly found inside the perimeter, but change is now underway. 

“I just completed a 21,000-square-foot gateway mural project for Gwinnett’s downtown, commissioned by the Sugarloaf Community Improvement District," said Atlanta-based Artist Krista M. Jones of Jonesy Art Atl LLC. “This is among the largest underpass murals in the United States, and the biggest in Georgia."

Artist Krista M. Jones

Credit: Krista M. Jones

"The project is titled 'Synchronicity' and the work comes from a mural series called FORMATIONS,” Jones added. "It's stylized abstraction inspired by nature, natural rhythms, connections, and spirit of community, offering joy in an unexpected place with a bigger impact.”

The project was four years in the making, transforming two retaining walls along the Sugarloaf Parkway/I-85 underpass into a massive mural for Gwinnett.

Wide view of Krista M. Jones' Mural in Gwinnett

Credit: Krista M. Jones

“I wanted these walls to come alive with energy transforming concrete into an experience reminding people they’re part of something larger,” said the Columbus State alum, who has lived all over the country and spent the past 25 years of her life here.

The murals cover both sides of the underpass with sweeping patterns of color. Each section was designed by the artist and completed in two phases: the North Wall in July 2024 and the South Wall in the last few days. 

Atlanta has become one of the country’s most important cities for murals and public art. Colorful images celebrating spirituality, history, culture, sports, politics and community heroism, and nature.

“I’m influenced by everything around me, people, music, images," Jones told me. "You can see these influences in my work, whether large or small."

The project has been arduous, working outside in the elements and on a scale requiring physicality and patience. 

Krista M. Jones poses as she works on mural for Gwinnett downtown

Credit: Krista M. Jones

The Synchronicity project was installed with the help of assistant artists Joe Dreher, Muhammad Suber, Angela Bortone, Aida Alarcón, Miles Davis and Alex Ferror.

Artist Krista M. Jones andassistant artists Joe Dreher, Muhammad Suber, Angela Bortone, Aida Alarcón, Miles Davis and Alex Ferror.

Credit: Krista M. Jones

“Krista’s work has transformed one of the most visible corridors into a landmark for Gwinnett’s vibrant downtown—one that celebrates creativity, community, and connection,” stated Alyssa Davis, executive director of the Sugarloaf CID.

Every single block and pattern of the underpass was touched by human hands during the creation of Synchronicity and this colorful landmark should last for many years to come.

New lighting has also been placed under the bridge for the 1.5 million people who drive underneath in the interstate. 

“I’m beyond grateful to have brought this vision to life and so proud of what we have accomplished,” Jones said.

For more information about the artist, visit www.jonesyartatl.com.