Pinetree Plaza has a new landmark, a vibrant and colorful mural reflecting the diverse community of Buford Highway. Painted by Atlanta artist Leah Abucayan, the mural project is a part of a larger initiative between businesses, like Halpern, and The City of Doraville to bring public art to the corridor.
“After seeing the impact murals have had in other communities, we jumped at the chance to bring a mural to Buford Highway,” said Halpern President Matthew Oppenheimer. “This mural at Pinetree Plaza celebrates the cultural diversity that defines Buford Highway through the lens of the various cuisines represented along the corridor,”
The design also reflects Leah’s personal connection and what inspired Halpern to select her for this inaugural project. Growing up, she and her family enjoyed eating kamayan, a traditional Filipino way of serving food communal style, atop banana leaves. Kamayan sets the foundation for the mural’s design, featuring foods like tamales, empanadas, naan, gyros, bao, and ramen.
“It has already been so gratifying to see how people are embracing the mural, and to see the meaning people are finding in the images,” Matthew said.
Halpern funded the mural project and partnered with Living Walls to identify an artist and oversee the installation. A community unveiling event was held on July 9, 2022, sponsored by Halpern, The City of Doraville and We Love Buford Highway, and featuring DeKalb County Board of Health, DArt (Doraville Art), Chamblee High School, I-CE NY and more!
The Mural Project in the News:
Atlanta Journal-Constitution: What Makes Buford Highway unique is celebrated in new mural in Doraville
Fox 5 Atlanta: New mural in DeKalb County showcases diversity through food
285 South: It’s not just about food. It’s way deeper than that
The Champion Newspaper: Doraville businesses, artists and city officials form partnerships to display public art
Artist Leah Abucayan brings her mural to life
