Who We Are
Paint It Back is a crew of artists, organizers, and dreamers turning blank walls into bold stories. Together, we build a public art movement worth remembering.
Have a Wall?
Property owners can partner with Paint It Back to bring art to their walls. We’ll connect you with the right artist, style, and story.
Volunteer With Us
From event setup to festival hospitality, volunteers make the magic possible. Join our crew and experience the energy of public art up close.
See the Gallery
Every festival leaves a trail of murals and memories. Explore our gallery to discover the art that’s transformed neighborhoods and meet the artists behind it.
Clinton: A new block is about to change…
Reflection, Renewal & Resilience
A Mural by @c.shannonart
This public artwork was made possible through a grant awarded to Paint it Back by the Iowa Economic Development Authority, supporting the organization’s mission to bring impactful street art to Clinton and turn overlooked spaces into vibrant community destinations
The Infinite Keys of Creation
A Mural by @jasladiosa
From the enchanted music spring magical flowers, reborn with every note… In the echo of its song, earth, sky, and the unknown intertwine in a wondrous dance that reminds us that creativity and nature…are the same magic.
What if street art could change the way a town sees itself?
That question sparked Paint it Back.
The Lyons Walls
An idea to breathe new life into a forgotten building
In this video tour of the Lyons Walls, co-founder and festival director Gabi Torres shares the story behind the vision that started it all.
3 Years Painting it Back
Founded in 2023, our mission is to harness the power of public art to bring new life to spaces, energize communities, and spur economic development and growth.
The celebration culminates with the Paint it Back Block Party on the third Saturday in August, a day-long event packed with live music, an adrenaline-filled paint battle, food, fashion, kids’ activities, and interactive art experiences.
Explore the Festival
The celebration grows, year after year.
2023
Bare walls, brave artists, bold beginnings.
2024
Murals blossomed, music echoed, crowds gathered
2025
Noon till night, the block alive.
Support the Local Arts
Discover unique and inspiring works of art.
Get Inspired
Explore our carefully curated collection of artwork and let your imagination soar.
Be Amazed
Be captivated by the talent and creativity of our featured artists.
Connect with Artists
Attend exclusive events and engage in conversations with our artists.
Discover Something New
With new pieces added regularly, there’s always something exciting to discover.
Make Art
Find your next subject and start building your own art expressions.
Donate Today
If you are not an artist but would like to support this project fueled by a community of art lovers.
Meet our Leaders
The festival was co-created by Gabi Torres and Chris Shannon in 2023.
Gabi Torres
Co–Creator
Chris Shannon
Co-Creator
@PaintItBackFest in social media
Be the first to know about new murals, workshops, and events.
The base of our mission is change
Experience why renewing the walls is important.
Why our Neighbors Love Us
Discover why our festival has become a favorite among locals.
Paint It Back transforms walls into vibrant stories, drawing visitors to discover Sawmill’s treasures and experience the magic of our shared community spaces.
The Sawmill Museum
We love supporting Paint It Back—art energizes our community, brings visitors, and sharing food makes the festival even more special.
Sweetheart Bakery & Homer’s Deli
Paint It Back energizes our community and brings more visitors. We celebrate with our neighbors, our sales rise, and we proudly support every festival.
Don’s Jewelry
