In the heart of Purcellville, two local visionaries are coming together to celebrate the power of music and art in a uniquely vibrant way. Kevin Bednarz, the creative force behind Purcellville Pub, and Scott Kinney, the owner of Shamrock Music Shoppe, have collaborated on a stunning mural that pays homage to some of the greatest icons of classic rock. This six-door-panel masterpiece, decorate the exterior of Shamrock, serves as a colorful tribute to the music that has shaped generations.
The mural features an electrifying array of legendary artists, including the flamboyant Freddie Mercury of Queen, the incomparable Tina Turner, the theatrical stylings of KISS, the iconic Johnny Cash, and the incomparable Jimi Hendrix. Each panel bursts with color and life, inviting passersby to stop and appreciate the rich history and cultural significance of these musical legends. The design not only showcases Bednarz’s artistic talent but also reflects the shared passion these two entrepreneurs have for enhancing their community through creativity.
“Shamrock Music Shoppe has always aimed to be a hub for musicians and music lovers alike,” Scott explains. “This mural not only beautifies our storefront but also serves as a reminder of the impact music has on our lives. It’s a tribute to the artists who have influenced us and a call to action for everyone to embrace their musical journeys.”
“The origin of this project: Several years ago, Michael Oaks (Discover Purcellville/Re-Love It) did a ‘Fences around Town’ project for charity, where local artists would paint picket fences with different themes, which would eventually be sold at auction to raise money for charity. The fence panel installed at Shamrock had been painted by Kevin Bednarz and was music-themed with faces of Jimi Hendrix, Frank Sinatra, and other musical icons. The artwork was so impressive that I decided to ask Kevin to do a commissioned project. We had musical-themed art panels on the side of our building—in 2015—when we moved into our second location at 160 W. Main Street. The paint was faded and the door panels were falling apart, so the timing of the project couldn’t have been any better. The only thing slowing me down was deciding which music icons to include, as there were so many great ones. But I’m really happy about the artists I chose and Kevin’s artistic ability to make them come alive. The main reason for doing this project was to ignite people’s musical passion, and the end results accomplished that beyond my wildest dreams! We hope they will inspire people to learn to play music and to share the joy these wonderful artists have given me throughout my lifetime,” shares Kinney.
The mural’s unveiling comes at an exciting time for Purcellville, as the town prepares for its annual Music and Arts Festival. The event celebrates local talent and creativity, making it the perfect backdrop for showcasing this artistic collaboration. As residents and visitors gather to enjoy live performances and artistic displays, the mural stands as a testament to the vibrant community spirit that defines Purcellville.
More than just a visual spectacle, this mural also serves to inspire local musicians, artists, and aspiring creators. It encourages them to pursue their passions and reminds them that art and music are intertwined, capable of bringing people together in powerful ways.
As the sun sets over Purcellville, the mural glows brightly, a beacon of creativity and inspiration. Kevin Bednarz and Scott Kinney’s collaboration is not just a tribute to classic rock legends; it is a celebration of the artistic heartbeat of our town. Through their work, they remind us all to embrace our passions, celebrate our community, and, most importantly, keep the spirit of music alive.
Don’t miss the lively Shamrock Music Shoppe at 160 W. Main St., Purcellville, VA. Whether you’re in search of instruments, music lessons, or simply a fantastic spot to immerse yourself in the local music scene, Shamrock is a great place to visit! Be sure to check out more of Kevin Bednarz’s artwork at Purcellville Pub and Purcellville Eats, both located in town, where his creative expressions further enhance the community’s artistic landscape.
By Cristina Buffington
