Discover the Sonny Side Alleyway: A Vibrant Tribute to Decatur, Alabama
A Kaleidoscope of Art, Community, and Cats in the Alley off Johnston St.
Step into the vibrant colors of Sonny Side where an unassuming alley off Johnston Street SE becomes a living canvas, inviting you to immerse yourself in the captivating world of Britt Flood's imagination. This is the Sonny Side alleyway, a beautiful mural and space that celebrates the spirit and beauty of Decatur.
Commissioned by the Decatur Downtown Redevelopment Authority (DDRA) and the Alabama Center for the Arts (ACA), the alley is called "Sonny Side" in honor of Sonny Craig. It’s a tribute not just to an individual, but to the entire community, celebrating the city's rich history, its wildlife, and the natural beauty that surrounds it.
About the Artist....
Britt Floyd is a painter based in North Caroline working to create moments of tenderness into the public realm and to cast a spell of connection, lovesickness, and big feelings within the viewer through large scale painting and mark making. Her paintings aim to visualize heightened moments of realization and the ephemeral, and her works of public art aim to give inactivated spaces visual poetry.
This mural was inspired by her many hikes through the Wheeler National Wildlife Refuge, and has poured her passion for nature and community into every brushstroke. The mural showcases a stunning array of local wildlife, native wildflowers, and the iconic Alabama Jubilee hot air balloons, creating a vibrant tapestry that transforms this urban alleyway into a colorful testament to Decatur's unique charm.
Adding to the artistic allure of the area are the Alley Cats—whimsical, cat statues sponsored by various businesses and organizations in Decatur. These delightful sculptures are scattered throughout the alley, each uniquely decorated and contributing to the city's vibrant arts scene. They create a playful, engaging atmosphere, inviting visitors to explore and discover each one.
Decatur Morgan County Tourism has created a scavenger hunt to see if you can find all of the cats in the alley.
So, the next time you find yourself in Decatur, make sure to take a detour through the alley off Johnston Street SE. Let the vibrant colors and dynamic scenes of the Sonny Side and the playful Alley Cats brighten your day and deepen your appreciation for this charming Alabama city.
