Youths, Artist Paint 150-Foot Mural in Mobile
A community mural at Strickland Youth Center is set to be unveiled at a reception on November 16.
Updated on Nov. 7, 2026 in Painting
Artist Banks Compton worked with 34 youths in detention and probation to paint a 150-foot mural at Strickland Youth Center in Mobile, Alabama. A reception will officially unveil the artwork on November 16.
Why it matters
The project gives young people in detention and probation a creative, collaborative role in a lasting public artwork in their own community. The mural's themes reflect Mobile County traditions and family moments.
The mural spans 150 feet and took over two years to complete with 34 youths in detention and probation contributing. The source does not state materials used or the total cost of the project.
The players
Banks Compton
Artist who designed the mural and worked one on one with the youths during the painting process.
Edmond Naman
Youth Court judge whose courtroom setting is depicted in the mural.
The details
Compton worked one on one with the youths during the design process, and the design was inspired by their conversations about moments with their guardians. The finished mural depicts children fishing with fathers, grandmothers baking, children having their hair done, and community traditions in Mobile County, and includes a fish painted by the youths. Youth Court Judge Edmond Naman is involved with the mural's courtroom setting.
Timeline
Over two years: mural painting work completed.
November 16, 10 a.m.: reception to officially unveil the murals at Strickland Youth Center.
Season Trajectory
Community-based art programs in juvenile detention settings have long used murals as a way to build skills and pride among participants. This project follows that pattern by turning a youth facility's wall into a permanent public artwork shaped by the participants' own experiences.
Residents of Mobile can see the finished mural at the reception on November 16 at Strickland Youth Center. The artwork offers a visible local landmark that reflects Mobile County family and community life.
The takeaway
Public art made with young people can turn a facility wall into a lasting record of their own community stories. Residents interested in similar projects can look for local youth art programs that invite participants into the design process.
What happens next
A reception to officially unveil the murals at Strickland Youth Center is scheduled for November 16, 2026, at 10 a.m.
Further reading
For more on painting projects like this, explore Painting coverage.
Source note: This article includes information reported by WKRG News 5.
