BROOKHAVEN — A local artist worked hard over the last month to spread Christmas cheer with window art throughout Brookhaven. In total, 15 businesses in Brookhaven had their windows adorned for the holiday season by Charity Dunaway. 

Dunaway is not originally from Lincoln County but has lived here throughout her life and is a resident now. She said she has not received formal training in art but has always been able to draw and paint. 

“I decided to start offering services with the encouragement of my sister and husband,” Dunaway said. “I am often inspired by learning something new and to push myself to be better. Every time I complete a piece it is always a learning experience.”

The windows were new to her this year. She said her favorite painting downtown is the nativity scene at State Farm Insurance. 

With each window, she cleans the surface, sketches out a design, applies a white base and lastly paints the window using various acrylic paints. Window paintings take between one to three days depending on size and the number of windows as she works around her personal schedule. 

She said she plans to offer window painting again next year whether it is for Christmas or another occasion. This time of year is special to Dunaway. 

“Christmas is my favorite tie of the year and has been since I was a child,” Dunaway said. “It is just a happy and giving time of the year and I love to spend it with my family.”

In addition to window painting, Dunaway offers services to paint banners, door hangers and others. She can be found on Facebook under Charity Dunaway Paints.