What's Happening?
ArtsWave Pride, a donor affinity group within ArtsWave, is dedicating its first-ever commissioned mural in Covington, Kentucky. The mural, titled “Every Day of Living Is a Gift,” is located on the back of Madison Design on Madison Avenue. This artwork
honors the life of Terry Noel, a Kentucky native and trans/drag performer who was active in the 1950s and 1960s. The commission also marks the 10th anniversary of ArtsWave Pride's mission to unite LGBTQIA+ individuals and allies in the Tri-State region to support the arts. A public celebration is scheduled at Madison Design on November 4, 2026, from 4:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. The event will include mingling, statements from project participants including artist Emil Wiersma, tours of Madison Design, and a historical presentation by Jacob Hogue, author of “Cincinnati Before Stonewall,” who will discuss Noel’s life and the mural's inspiration. The event is open to the public.
Why It's Important?
This mural is important as it publicly recognizes and celebrates a pioneering figure in LGBTQIA+ history, Terry Noel, within a prominent public space in Covington, Kentucky. This act of public art contributes to the visibility and acknowledgment of the LGBTQIA+ community's historical contributions and struggles. For the Tri-State region, it signifies a commitment to inclusivity and artistic expression, fostering a more welcoming environment for diverse communities. The dedication by ArtsWave Pride, on its 10th anniversary, highlights the growing influence of donor affinity groups in promoting social causes through art. This initiative can inspire similar projects in other U.S. cities, encouraging the recognition of underrepresented historical figures and promoting dialogue around LGBTQIA+ rights and history. It also underscores the role of local businesses, like Madison Design, in supporting community-driven art and placemaking efforts.
What's Next?
The public celebration on November 4, 2026, will serve as the official dedication of the mural, bringing together community members, artists, and historians. Following the dedication, the mural will stand as a permanent fixture in Covington, contributing to the city's public art landscape and serving as a point of historical and cultural reference. The event, featuring a history lesson from Jacob Hogue, is expected to educate attendees about Terry Noel's life and the broader context of LGBTQIA+ history in the region. This initiative may encourage further discussions and projects aimed at preserving and celebrating the history of marginalized communities. The success of this project could also pave the way for ArtsWave Pride to commission more public art pieces that reflect the diversity of the Tri-State area.
Beyond the Headlines
The unveiling of this mural transcends a simple art installation; it represents a significant cultural and ethical statement. By honoring Terry Noel, a trans/drag performer from the mid-20th century, Covington is actively engaging in a re-evaluation of historical narratives, ensuring that the contributions of LGBTQIA+ individuals are not overlooked. This act challenges traditional societal norms and promotes a more inclusive understanding of American history. Ethically, it underscores the importance of representation and the power of art to foster empathy and understanding across different communities. The mural's presence in a public space can serve as a daily reminder of the struggles and triumphs of the LGBTQIA+ community, potentially influencing public perception and encouraging greater acceptance. It also highlights a long-term shift in how cities acknowledge and integrate diverse cultural histories into their public identity.
