Local artist, RayShaun McNary, created this design for “Be Nice! Arkansas” t-shirts.
The Arkansas design company, Be Nice! Arkansas, recently teamed up with Hot Springs artist RayShaun McNary, to create a new t-shirt design. “This is a limited-edition shirt so I hope you’ll order and I’m so proud to partner with this enormously talented young man,” said Diana Hampo, the force behind Be Nice! Arkansas.
When approached, McNary did not hesitate and knew almost immediately he wanted to incorporate elements of the Civil Rights movement from 1968 to 2020. The resulting artwork is entitled “Rise.”
In the 1960s, many of the most visible leaders in the Civil Rights movement were young men who took to the streets with signs. Today, it’s strong and determined women, with clear voices and cell phones. But the message and struggles are still the same. McNary explained, “I want people to see and understand that history is different and still similar. In fifty- or sixty-years things have changed. But that doesn’t mean racism is gone. It’s just different. We can’t be equal if we’re still dodging the past and don’t want to talk about it.”
McNary uses both traditional mediums and graphic arts to create. “Local artists really sparked my desire to create. Now I want to help kids.” One of his most important mentors has been local artist Anthony Tidwell. “He taught me how to be a professional artist and how to use art in a therapeutic way.” Other influences include musician and Instagram artist King Spiff, as well as retired Lakeside art teacher, Ms. Jo Hornbeck.
Several local stores carry the Be Nice! Arkansas brand. You can find them locally or order online at www.benicearkansas.com. For more information, email hampoland@gmail.com or call 501-276-6575.
