Best Muralist

Sanithna Phansavanh came to Atlanta via Kansas City, MO, where he and his family lived through a refugee program after his mother escaped Laos. He’s created murals all over Atlanta incorporating ideas of growth, women as strong members of society, and perception. This year alone he completed three murals, all full of energy, bringing the streets of Atlanta to life with every brush stroke. Keep doing your thing, Sanithna. We?re thankful for your passion and talent.

Photo courtesy of Sanithna Phansavanh

Even if you don’t know the name FABIAN “OCCASIONAL SUPERSTAR” WILLIAMS, you’ve more than likely seen, or been impacted by, the artist’s work. His massive, vibrant murals — such as his fluorescent portrait of Hosea Williams, which was completed in July, adorn buildings across the city and serve as both eye-catching visual treats and as multilayered, often-whimsical political statements. And the North Carolina native’s artistic efforts this year extended beyond just creating it: Joining forces with a number of his fellow muralists, Williams successfully battled the City in court over the right to have paintings displayed on private party without excessive government interference. But whether we’re talking advocacy or the creative process, Atlanta’s a better place with Williams here doing his thing. www.occasionalsuperstar.com.

photo by: Joeff Davis