In Spring 2021, my design, “Speak up for our Community” was chosen by Wheaton Arts Parade and Wheaton Gateway to be produced into a repeating banner mural and placed in downtown Wheaton Maryland. 

Artist Statement for Banner Mural (Written in 2021)

Through this design, I wanted to showcase all the ways in which our community calls to action; through art, activism, care, creativity, dreaming, and advocating we can make change and seek connection.

Amongst the buildings are wildflowers growing tall, and roots burrowing deep. I made this choice in order to symbolize how in this difficult time, our community continues to not only grow, but blossom, and expand. The deep roots we have grown are crucial to the cornerstone of our community.

As an educator, I am especially empowered by the way youth have come together during the COVID-19 pandemic, and united in fights for social change. This past semester I have been teaching my students about Mural art in the DC area, and I was able to share the design with my students to receive their input. I have gained so much inspiration from my students, and I hope this work can inspire them as well.