JEFFERSON, Iowa — The town of Jefferson is coming alive with art, and the momentum looks to just keep going.

Jefferson has maintained a vibrant downtown, which some feel is partially thanks to its unique art features. 

Rooftop art is something unique to the central Iowa town, where there are murals intended to be viewed from the top of the town’s bell tower. There are also alleyways with art pieces, from a peaceful space with bird artwork to a modern and industrial piece on the town square’s north side, to an interactive alleyway focused on a younger audience.

While the emphasis on art is a more recent push, some feel it’s just helping onlookers see what’s always been at the core of Jefferson. 

“I think Jefferson has always been a creative spot. We had a great music program through all these years for our school kids. We’ve had a great theatre, community theatre here. I think we were just ripe for this idea to expand it down into public art. So, with that, I’m hoping that we’re sending the signal across the state that we’re welcome to all creatives that are here,” said Debra McGinn, Tower View team chairperson.

The town plans to add more murals to its downtown area over the next year and also host an art festival as well as a music festival this summer.