“All their creativity began
In fascination and error
Like mistaking a meadow stone
For a mockingbird”

Inscribed beside the painted mockingbird, these lines come from Maurice Ferguson’s poem “Sailing for the East Indies.” The mural, “Maurice’s Mockingbird,” is a tribute by a group of writers-admirers for local writer and mentor Maurice Ferguson. Believed to be Roanoke’s first poetry mural, the mural was a community effort led by a group of writers and assisted by the Roanoke Art Mural Project (RAMP). The group commissioned artist Toobz Muir to paint the mural, who helped bring Ferguson’s poem’s chosen lines to life.

“Maurice’s Mockingbird” has been added to the Appalachian Mural Trail for Blue Ridge Parkway travelers. Art by Bike Tours has also included this mural within their map so that bike riders who enjoy art can follow along. See links below:

Blue Ridge Parkway Mural Trail
Art by Bike Tour

About the Artist:
Scott Noel aka Toobz Muir, is a self-taught artist based in Roanoke, VA. Known for his colorful and surreal work, he draws inspiration from his early fascination with graffiti and from his challenges with being color blind. Muir’s murals can be found all over Roanoke and he has featured some in other U.S. cities as well. See more of the artist’s works at toobzmuir.com

Sourced from:
TheRoanokeStar.com: To Paint a Mockingbird