Located on the side of a Transylvania warehouse on the corner of Fourth and Jefferson streets, “The Pythia In Agate” mural by Lexington artist Joe King was born from a current passion project of the artist revolving around reimagining and illustrating Greek myths and the historic lore that surrounds them. The image depicts the Oracle of Delphi, also known as the Pythia, exiting a trance to deliver guidance to a listener on their path toward the future.
“The laurel wreath on [The Pythia’s] head and light from her heart suggest to follow the path of the heart with wisdom as your guide,” King explained. “The smoke-like colors, known as trance inducing pneuma, swirl around, forming shape and color similar to Kentucky agate, to suggest that the path ahead will always be connected to home.”
King has worked for years as a graphic designer and tattoo artist in Lexington but is relatively new to the world of creating murals, having created a total of six large-scale paintings to date. A longtime friend of John and Jessica Winters, the organizers behind the PRHBTN mural project, he said the organization initially inspired him to try his hand at murals.
“One of the greatest perks of working with PRHBTN is the freedom they give to their artists,” he said. “I am so grateful for their trust and support of my art and truly honored to be able to be a part.”
During the mural installation, King was floored by the comments and support from the community while he was painting. “I felt so loved and connected with the community, which to me is what street art is all about,” he said.
“The Pythia In Agate” mural by Joe King was completed in October 2021 as part of the 10th annual PRHBTN street art celebration. Click here to read more about the event.