In Johns Creek, art has a special way of popping up in unexpected places. As you explore the city, you’ll begin to discover the inspirational local art scene of Johns Creek. Maybe it’s a colorful mural you stumble upon on an afternoon stroll or a quirky statue tucked into nature. That’s the magic of our art scene: it’s everywhere and created for everyone to enjoy. To help guide your art adventure, check out our digital Self Guided Arts Tour Brochure filled with public art installations and the stories behind them!
While there’s plenty of art to uncover, we’ll first take a look at a few standout pieces that are bold, beautiful, and always worth a visit. Let’s dive into some of the art that defines Johns Creek and is waiting to be discovered by you!
Johns Creek Tunnel
One of the city’s most iconic art installations, the Johns Creek Tunnel, is an extraordinary experience that is sure to wow you. Designed by internationally renowned artist Hanif Kureshi from India, the fully immersive mural surrounds you with bold, vibrant colors. Located beneath the Medlock Bridge Road, the tunnel is one of the only places in Metro-Atlanta where you can literally stand inside a work of art. The tunnel is easily accessible from the eastern entrance of the Hilton Garden Inn. It’s the perfect spot to snap a photo or simply enjoy the creativity.
“Entwined Strength”
Created by local artist Eric Strauss in 2022, this striking steel stallion is made from hundreds of individually hand-crafted steel vines. Each twist of metal represents a thread of diversity, which comes together to form a powerful union. The horse, frozen in motion, symbolizes the Johns Creek community as it evolves and reaches towards the future. Located at the Bell-Boles roundabout, this bold and meaningful sculpture is hard to miss and worth a visit.
“The Bridge”
One of Johns Creek’s newest public artworks, “The Bridge” blends history, artistry, and symbolism. Installed in 2023 at Cauley Creek Park, this 34-foot wide sculpture was created by artist Ilan Averbuch who repurposed steel from the historic Rogers Bridge. The steel beams represent the people of Johns Creek, as they uphold the arch and connect to each other. This sculpture is a meaningful tribute to the past and future of Johns Creek.
While these beloved works have become iconic landmarks in Johns Creek, they’re just the beginning of what the Johns Creek art scene has to offer!
“Everyone Has a Seat at the Creek”
This interactive mural in Newtown Park invites you to “take a seat” in one of several colorful chairs. Each chair tells its own story, with themes that relate to the rich culture and diversity of Johns Creek. Painted in 2020 by international artist Kelsey Montague, this mural is all about inclusion and community pride. It’s the perfect photo-op and reminder that in Johns Creek, everyone has a seat at the table.
The Six Bridges of Johns Creek
Tucked inside Six Bridges Brewing, this mural by local artist and historian Joan Compton tells the story behind the brewery’s name and is an important piece of Johns Creek’s history. This artwork depicts the six historic bridges once built by Native Americans to cross the Chattahoochee River between the 1840s and 1914. Pop into the brewery to enjoy a locally crafted brew and learn the history of Johns Creek.
Monkey Statues
At Autrey Mill Nature Preserve, you’ll discover these playful monkey statues, which are a nod to one of Johns Creek’s most curious local legends. According to folklore, a circus train crashed near this forest sometime in the early 20th century, where dozens of monkeys escaped into the woods. While no one knows for sure what occurred, these statues, constructed by an unknown artist, are a fun discovery that keeps this story alive through generations of Johns Creek’s community.
“From Reading to Writing, Under the Tree of Knowledge”
This 17-foot sculpture, located just outside the Ocee Library, celebrates the importance of lifelong learning. Artist Marianne Weinberg-Benson brings this idea to life with the “Tree of Knowledge,” a striking sculpture etched into the corner of the library’s brick walls. This piece is a beautiful reminder that libraries are more than just a place to check out books, but rather a space for learning, growth, and inspiration.
These highlighted pieces are just the start of your journey through Johns Creek’s public art scene. Here, you never know what kind of creativity you’ll find around the corner.