Hilltop Campus Village Launches Public Art Initiative with New Mural at Celebrity's Beauty Supply

DAVENPORT, Iowa – The Hilltop Campus Village is proud to announce the launch of a new public art initiative with the installation of a mural at Celebrity's Beauty Supply. The mural will be located at the corner of 16th and Ripley Streets in Davenport. The mural will be designed and painted by local artist Zay Williams and represents the beginning of a Mural Art project that will focus on maintaining old murals and installing new works of art. This project stems from a recommendation from the Hilltop's recent Master Planning Project

The mural is intended to celebrate the Hilltop's rich history, cultural diversity, and creative spirit while transforming a highly visible intersection into a welcoming neighborhood landmark. As one of the first implementation projects identified through the Master Plan, the mural demonstrates the Hilltop Campus Village's commitment to placemaking, neighborhood revitalization, and creating vibrant public spaces through the arts.

"Public art has the power to tell the story of a neighborhood," said Brian Kramer, Executive Director of the Hilltop Campus Village. "This mural will be more than a beautiful piece of artwork—it is an investment in community pride, neighborhood identity, and the people who call the Hilltop home. We are thrilled to have an artist of Zay Williams' talent help bring this vision to life."

Williams, whose work is recognized for its bold use of color and compelling visual storytelling, will create a mural that reflects the energy, diversity, and resilience of the Hilltop community. Once completed, the artwork will serve as a backdrop for community events, photographs, and neighborhood gatherings while adding another point of interest for residents and visitors exploring the district.

This project has been made possible through grant funding provided by the City of Davenport and Quad City Arts. Their investment in public art demonstrates a shared commitment to neighborhood revitalization and will help transform the Hilltop into a more vibrant, welcoming, and engaging destination for residents and visitors alike.

The Hilltop Campus Village extends its sincere appreciation to the City of Davenport, Quad City Arts, Celebrity's Beauty Supply, artist Zay Williams, and the many residents, volunteers, and community supporters whose collaboration has made this project possible. Together, these partnerships demonstrate how public art can strengthen neighborhoods, celebrate local culture, and inspire continued investment throughout the Hilltop.

About the Hilltop Campus Village

The Hilltop Campus Village is a nationally accredited Iowa Main Street district dedicated to strengthening Davenport's central corridor through economic development, historic preservation, placemaking, and community engagement. Since 2009, the organization has worked alongside residents, businesses, institutions, and public partners to create a vibrant, connected, and economically resilient neighborhood. Through strategic investment, community partnerships, and creative initiatives, the Hilltop continues to build a stronger future while celebrating the unique history and character of one of Davenport's most distinctive neighborhoods.

Media Contact:Brian KramerExecutive DirectorHilltop Campus VillageBrian@HilltopCampusVillage.org