Based around the most ubiquitous symbols of South Carolina: the palmetto and the crescent moon which adorn the State’s flag, the mural depicts a Carolina Wren (the state bird of South Carolina) perched on a palmetto branch shaded with the compliments dark blue and yellow. Rendered in the artist’s distinct pattern-based style, which adds depth and complexity to the image, the mural represents the passage of time and the tenacity of the human spirit. The central moon is a symbol for the utopian future of the wren, a metaphor for humanity and optimism, while the smaller moons show the days and time that separate the present from that goal. Overall it is an image that is both representative of South Carolina and inspires those who view it with the endless possibilities of a hopeful future.

As Rusnak, the artist, explains, “I hope people take a minute out of their busy day, out of running errands, to enjoy and ponder the artwork and its relation to them. On a more specific level, I want this mural to give people hope. Conceptually it’s about looking towards the future, and seeing something greater to hope for. I hope it can give people that encouragement to be positive.”

This mural one of many and part of the Kroger’s larger mission to give local artists the opportunity to lend their talents into creating an uplifting experience in Kroger stores. The company’s objective is to create spaces that encourage community gathering and celebrate the spirit of the area within which the store is located. Kroger has committed to partnering with local arts organizations where new stores are being built to coordinate the identification and selection of murals completed by a local artist within 65 of the new stores that will be opened across the country this year, and plans to continue it in years to come.