Wheat Paste mural to be unveiled

As Knoxville prepares to welcome thousands of racing fans for the 65th Running of the Knoxville Nationals, a new public art installation will invite visitors to experience the history of sprint car racing in a whole new way.

This August, downtown Knoxville will become an open-air gallery featuring a collection of large-scale wheat paste murals created by acclaimed artist Isaac Campbell. Installed on multiple buildings throughout downtown, the temporary exhibition celebrates the people, moments, and legacies that have shaped the Knoxville Nationals into one of the most iconic events in dirt track racing.

Designed as a self-guided walking experience, the murals encourage race fans and residents alike to slow down, explore downtown Knoxville, and connect with the moments and people that have made the Knoxville Nationals a tradition for generations.

"Wheat paste murals are a unique form of public art because they're meant to be experienced in the places where stories happen," said Campbell. "Knoxville has such a rich racing history, and it's been an honor to help bring some of those moments back into the streets where the community can experience them together."

Unlike permanent murals, wheat paste installations are intentionally temporary, creating a one-of-a-kind experience available only during this milestone anniversary. Their fleeting nature reflects the excitement of race week itself, something special that brings people together for a moment in time.

The project is a collaborative community effort made possible through partnerships with local building owners, community organizations, and sponsors who share a passion for preserving and celebrating Knoxville's racing heritage. Partners include: Hannah Vander Veer, Realtor ®; National Sprint Car Hall of Fame and Museum; Knoxville Preservation Foundation; Don Long; Marion County Title Services; Cutting Edge Painting; Dave Hill; and Studio 92 Photography.

Visitors will be able to follow the mural trail through downtown using a map, making it easy to explore local shops, restaurants, and businesses while discovering each installation.

"This project is about more than creating beautiful artwork," said organizer Hannah Vander Veer. "It's about celebrating 65 years of tradition, honoring an event that brings so many to Knoxville and creating another reason for visitors to experience everything our downtown has to offer."

The murals will officially debut ahead of the 65th Running of the Knoxville Nationals and will remain on display for a limited time.

Additional information, including a walking map and mural locations in downtown Knoxville, will be released prior to Nationals week through organizer Hannah Vander Veer, Realtor’s Facebook, Instagram & TikTok accounts.

Anyone interested in volunteering to help install the art pieces on August 5, 6, 7 & 8 are encouraged to contact Hannah Vander Veer at hannah@hannahvanderveer.com.