KINGSPORT, Tenn. (WJHL) — Joseph Maye is the artist behind HexaGoat Art. He has been a freelance artist for over 26 years and has a unique style that blends cubism, realism and geometric features to create murals and tattoos.

Maye finds inspiration in the natural beauty he sees while walking the Kingsport Greenbelt. His artistic eye often notices the vibrant colors that wade through the Holston River.

“The Great blue heron spends a lot of its time here, and I see them on a daily basis during the warmer months. It feels so majestic, and I grew to love spotting them here.”

The bird inspired Maye to repaint a wall he had previously worked on near Sullivan and Center streets. A former business owner had covered up his work, but the new business owner gave him the go-ahead to brighten the wall.

“He gave me free rein to create whatever I desired,” Maye said. “Kingsport has been home to me for much of my life, and I love so many aspects of our area.”

He used the leeway to create a striking image of the Great blue heron, which features bold colors and crisp linework. Maye has traveled extensively for military and personal reasons, but he has always cherished his home in Sullivan County.

“I love taking all the spaces here in Kingsport and bringing them to life with vibrant colors and design that give our community and myself a sense of pride,” he said. “I hope to encourage a love for the arts and inspire conversation through thought-provoking works and imagery.”

Maye’s mural was completed in three days. Other HexaGoat Art murals are featured in a slideshow below: