Artist Gilbert Young pictured with actor, film director Spike Lee and "He Ain't Heavy" painting.

Artist Gilbert Young pictured with actor, film director Spike Lee and "He Ain't Heavy" painting.

An estimated one million people thronged to Atlanta for the 2019 Super Bowl. When the opposing teams and visiting fans returned home, a series of murals depicting Atlanta's civil rights and social justice journey stayed behind. 

Among the 11 artists who painted murals for the WonderRoot "Off The Wall" initiative surrounding the big game is renowned artist Gilbert Young. His iconic, 40-year old image "He Ain't Heavy" is now installed in huge scale on the side of Capitol Gateway Apartments in Atlanta. 

On Second Thought host Virginia Prescott speaks with Gilbert Young.

Young stopped by On Second Thought to talk about his expansive career, including meeting former president and first lady Barack and Michelle Obama. To honor the 40th anniversary of Young's "He Ain't Heavy," the artist is offering special editions of the work. 

 

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Artist Gilbert Young working on "Liberty," a centerpiece in his "Masterworks: As I See It" collection

Artist Gilbert Young working on "Liberty," a centerpiece in his "Masterworks: As I See It" collection

"He Ain't Heavy" mural located in Atlanta, Ga.

"He Ain't Heavy" mural located in Atlanta, Ga.

Tags: artist  He Ain't Heavy  mural  Gilbert Young  visual art  WonderRoot  Super Bowl  civil rights  art  Atlanta