CLARKSVILLE, Tenn (CLARKSVILLENOW) – Those enjoying an afternoon at Liberty Park last week are likely to have noticed a colorful bird dominating the sidewalk near the playground. This work of art, and many like it, are the product of Railey E. Warren, a young, local artist who specializes in sidewalk murals.

Railey, known on the internet as ArtsyRew, began working with chalk in Georgia at age 10. Art became an outlet for her in times of poor health. Railey has EDS and POTS, conditions which affect blood flow and the body’s ability to produce collagen. This can cause fatigue, light-headedness, and fainting.

Since moving to Clarksville, Railey’s condition has improved and she can regularly be found at Liberty Park or the Downtown Commons creating large, colorful sidewalk murals. Many of her pieces feature fanciful animals and fantastical creatures. Most works take approximately 2 to 3 hours to create.

Railey loves using her art to help and inspire others. Last year, she traveled to Louisville where she participated in Via Colori, Kentucky’s largest street painting festival. Approximately 100 artists gather to share their talents and raise money for the New Beginnings Foundation, a non-profit organization that provides training and support for foster families in Kentucky.

She also took part in the Steven A. Cohen Military Family Clinic’s recent one year anniversary art show. A portion of the proceeds from that event went to the clinic and its projects.

Some of her biggest fans are children. Often, kids at the park will wander over to see the colorful sidewalk art, and Railey will take the time to stop and talk with them.

“I just love inspiring others. When I first came to Clarksville, I was extremely sick, and art was my escape, my relief, the one thing I could do when I was sick,” says Railey. “But now that I’ve gotten better and I’ve been so supported, it is a way for me to inspire people like me who were sick. It’s just amazing to encourage.”

Railey’s work will be displayed at Frozen Fuel during this month’s First Thursday ArtWalk, a monthly, self-guided tour of Downtown businesses featuring some of Clarksville’s best artists. Her exhibit will feature some of her first works in paint on canvas. All proceeds from her showcase will benefit the Montgomery County FUEL Program.

To see more of Railey’s art, contact her at ArtsyRew@gmail.com, or simply take a stroll through the park one afternoon.