The City of Buchanan is announcing its official dedication of its recently completed mural by internationally recognized artist Jeff Zimmerman honoring the accomplishments of hometown hero and Buchanan Community Schools graduate Hannah Roberts.
Roberts brought Buchanan to the world stage when she competed in the 2020 Summer Games in Tokyo. Not only has the BMX World Champion received a silver medal for her achievements, but she has also made history as the world’s first woman to successfully complete a 360-tail whip in competition.
During the games, cheers could be heard from the center of downtown Buchanan radiating from the outdoor venue where friends, family and community members gathered to watch Roberts compete on a rented jumbotron. The community has come together in a big way once again to both celebrate and fund the mural project with donations coming from a variety of sources including businesses, nonprofits and personal gifts.
Says City Manager Heather Grace, “I am absolutely ecstatic that we have this opportunity to showcase a powerful young woman from our community who has demonstrated her talent and work ethic on the world stage! Not only is it a stunningly beautiful addition to our downtown, but I think that it is also a beacon of hope for our youth that shows what is possible if you believe in yourself and work hard towards achieving your goals.”
Artist Jeff Zimmerman has captured the City’s pride in Roberts by completing a mural in the heart of downtown depicting imagery of her history-making trick, an Olympic torch paired with the USA flag and a stunning portrait in the artist’s signature style.
Zimmerman’s work is familiar to many locals as he has created works in the surrounding areas including Grand Rapids and throughout the Chicago area including work with the Chicago Art Institute.
When asked about this project Zimmerman stated, “I knew it was something I wanted to do,” and went to work capturing Hannah’s “spirit” in this mural.
“Hannah represents everything good about Buchanan,” says Buchanan’s Mayor Sean Denison, “She is a role model for our young people, and she is proof that when you sacrifice, when you show grit and determination, when you work tirelessly toward a goal- you can go as far as your imagination will take you.”
The City of Buchanan invites you to come and see this stunning downtown addition for yourself! Hannah Roberts will be on site at the Dedication for a meet and greet along with an opportunity to have your picture taken with the athlete. Light refreshments will be offered courtesy of Honor Credit Union.
