Problem:
Middle and high school BluePrint II students wanted to make their mark on downtown Auburn with an exterior mural project. Yet what sane property owner would allow an emoji design featured on their building? LOL
Solution:
Scholastic enthusiast Sue Muldoon reached out to me to see if I would project manage this group of students in creating a mural. Yup! I next contacted Joe Bartolotta to see if the family would be willing to offer outside space on any of their many downtown locations. We agreed on the east facing exterior wall of the Underground Bottle Shop, a hip new wine & spirits business on the corner of a busy intersection, with high visibility. We would paint the mural on boards, so it could be removed if need be, down the line.
Next, I reached out to colleague Dawn Jordan, a renowned muralist who greatly enjoys working with students. With some direction, the theme “dream” emerged as a design concept, and that the word would be seen in the various languages representative of Auburn’s diverse residents. Dawn took the ball from there, deciding hands would hold the words, and what the color palette would be. Then the students helped paint the background colors, and the blocks that the words are in, and Dawn painted the lettering and all the fine touches.
This was a rewarding project, we did right by the BluePrint II students, and created a welcoming eastern gateway into downtown. The small budget was raised by donations from generous individuals and the Harriet Tubman Boosters. Thanks to the Bartolotta family for the space, and educator Matt Drastal for creating the Plexiglas name plaque. We also appreciate Rick Petrone’s help installing the MDO boards. Many hands make light work my friends!
To learn more visit Art for Auburn on Facebook