Local muralist Bryan Deese’s artistic journey began with a spray can and a spark of rebellion. As a high schooler, he was drawn to the raw energy of graffiti, not as a phase, but as a passion he embraced. What started as street art has transformed into large-scale murals, breathing new life into Gallatin and beyond.
History, design and typography all inspire his work. Painting local history brings art to life, celebrating its importance and those who lived it. “It has the power to uplift the community in that way, and I like that,” Bryan says.
His art benefits the community by meeting them where they are. “I want the community around my work to appreciate it,” says Bryan. “I don’t try to make everyone happy, though. That’s impossible, and it weakens the artwork if you try to make something that everyone will like. I really just try to give the public strong ideas and execution.”
Unexpected challenges while creating a mural are inevitable. Each wall is unique and presents a different set of challenges to work around. Additionally, weather is often an issue throughout larger, time-consuming projects. “When I work on a big project, I budget in a few extra days, knowing some sort of weather is bound to happen,” Bryan confesses. “Finding solutions during my process, though, is one of my favorite aspects of painting large murals.” Completing a mural, despite the challenges, is extremely rewarding for Bryan.
His art definitely makes a beautiful impact on the community. Bryan’s favorite reaction is from his mural depicting Ray Underhill Jr., a Gallatin native and Tennessee’s first professional skateboarder. “While I was working, his father and stepmother paid me a visit. They were really sweet and appreciative that I was honoring their son.”
Bryan’s murals add charm and character to the community in many ways, and his passion and love for his art are evident and inspiring.
Murals are an art form for the whole community to enjoy.