New Hollister Landmark Mural Completed at CORE Facility
In December, city leaders, CORE representatives, members of the Hollister Chamber of Commerce, and community guests gathered in the Downing Street district for a ribbon-cutting ceremony celebrating Hollister’s newest landmark: a panoramic visual tribute to the city’s heritage and America’s 250-year anniversary. Painted across the south and west walls of The CORE Store’s furniture warehouse, the mural reflects both Hollister’s past and its ongoing story as a growing and vibrant community in the Tri-Lakes area.
The mural spans 2,000 square feet and incorporates symbolic elements that define Hollister’s identity. Created by artist Raine Clotfelter, “America’s Muralist,” the work prominently features a train recalling the White River Railway — without which there would be no Hollister. Grapes represent the city’s agricultural heritage, while the depiction of Turkey Creek serves as a reminder that Hollister was the first tourist destination in the greater Branson area. At the southwest corner, a dramatic American flag and bald eagle honor the nation’s upcoming 250-year anniversary.
The artwork already is drawing visitors to Downing Street, with many stopping to take photos in front of it and share their experience with others.
Raine also added a Scripture passage that he felt captured the spirit of the mural: II Corinthians 3:17 — “Now the Lord is that Spirit: and where the Spirit of the Lord is, there is liberty.” CORE CEO Cary McKee shared his appreciation for its inclusion, noting that it encompasses the mural’s patriotic and civic themes as well as the freedom inherent in faith and recovery.
Discussions about placing a mural on CORE’s building began several years ago through conversations between city leaders and Cary. Assistant City Administrator Denise Olmstead reflected on the timing of the project: “All the pieces presented themselves at the right time. We had the location, the partnership, and a muralist whose work truly tells the story of our community.”
Cary expressed CORE’s gratitude for the opportunity to host the artwork. “CORE is honored to have this mural on our building, and we’re committed to caring for it,” he said. “It allows us to show our support for Hollister, and for our country, while also bringing awareness to our mission.”
Olmstead added that the project was designed to be something everyone involved could take pride in: “We wanted artwork that represents the community, honors our history, and is something CORE is proud to have on their building, not just for today, but for years to come.”
City Administrator Lamar Patton shared that the collaboration reflects the strong working relationship between the City and CORE. “We’ve seen firsthand the results you all produce,” he said. “We’ve got a lot of friends who came through the program. There’s no doubt to me how good that program is.”
At CORE, we also see this work of art as an important symbol of community partnership. As Cary said, “It came together amazingly. We’re grateful to the City of Hollister and proud to have this mural on our building — celebrating our hometown, our country, and the story of this community we’re blessed to be part of.”