DECATUR, Ill. (WAND) — Antonio Burton was just a kid when he realized he had a gift — one he would someday use to spread messages to his community.
“It’s kind of like my way to communicate,” Burton said.
Burton is a Decatur resident and artist who has created murals all around the city. Some of his art can be found at Webster Cantrell Hall and Dansby Elementary School.
His mural at Webster Cantrell Hall holds a special meaning for Burton because of his own connection to the organization.
“Being a person who had an advocate growing up and also being an employee for Webster Cantrell in the past, made me want to put something out there that had action behind it,” Burton said.
Burton spends most of his time at the 704 Suite, a space filled with different talents across the city. While he is there, Burton continues creating art for the younger generation.
“One of the things close and dear to my heart is the youth,” Burton said. “I feel like investing in our tomorrow means investing in the youth.”
Burton says growing up, it always felt like if you weren’t in sports, you weren’t as important. Now, he wants his paintings to show kids that everything they do matters.
“It’s important that our children understand that their talents are meant to be shared, not just with Decatur, but with everybody,” Burton said.
Art has the power to make a huge difference, and Burton knows his work is already making an impact on the community. He plans to keep it going.
“We’ve got so many great things happening in this city, but nobody talks about that,” Burton said. “I’m just here to shine a light, man.”
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