Media Pride Crosswalk
I was recently lucky enough to be involved in creating a crosswalk mural in Media, PA, through the Media Arts Council! I created the design and worked alongside other artists and volunteers to bring it to life on the pavement.
I was originally brought in contact with Jeff Thomas, the artistic director of the MAC through PAFA’s alumni council in June. After several months of communication, concept work, revisions, and finalization, we landed on a spiral design inspired by the ending of the yellow brick road from the Wizard of Oz. Jeff expressed this idea to me as a visualization of the crosswalk not just as a utilitarian feature, but as a ‘path’ leading people to where they belong. I later worked alongside muralist Stephanie Untz (pictured below) to execute the design. It was thanks to Steph and her expertise that the process went smoothly and that my design could finally be realized.
It is truly such a joy to know that something I helped create has been able to touch so many people. There were several instances of people— not having prior knowledge of the project— coming over off the street to thank me personally for my work. Going into the design process, sitting at home in front of my computer, it was hard to picture this as anything other than just ‘work’. But working alongside so many people, in such a warm, welcoming community, it was undeniable how much this piece had an impact. Especially in a time of so much economic, social, and political turmoil, I believe that this kind of work (both visual and community-driven) is more important for us than ever. I am so incredibly grateful to everyone who helped bring this project to life and supported me as a student artist, I couldn’t have done it without you!
