Arts & Culture

Scenic Roots

"Scenic Roots" offers conversations that matter in the heart of Chattanooga and the Tennessee Valley.From the mountains to the river, our conversations are rooted deep within every corner of our community - reflecting who we are, who we were and who we can become.We engage with the news that affects our community, behind and beyond the headlines. We build bridges that span from creators and innovators to storytellers and the outdoors. We focus on our challenges as many communities in one - as we celebrate what inspires us. We resonate with countless voices - in words and spaces, sounds and songs.We are "Scenic Roots."Ray Bassett hosts and produces "Scenic Roots" at WUTC.

How A Youth Mural Says “It’s Our Turn”

WUTC | By Ray Bassett

Published June 1, 2021 at 3:00 PM EDT

Part of the “It’s Our Turn” mural at Stove Works.

“It’s Our Turn” is a mural designed and created by four teens in Chattanooga from start to finish through workshops by the arts nonprofit Mark Making and in collaboration with local artists.

The mural - unveiled a few weeks ago at Stove Works - depicts the problems of bullying, gang violence and drug abuse while also inspiring other teens to say “It’s Our Turn” to avoid these behaviors.

Ricardo Nache is one of the teens involved in this project - along with Kennedy Bass, Skylar Muhammad and Tahlia Smith.

I spoke with Ricardo - and Frances McDonald, founder and executive director of Mark Making.

The “It’s Our Turn” mural at Stove Works.