Mural at Hunters Point South Park, Queens, NY

Early this year I got an email that my mural proposal for Hunters Point South Park community arts in LIC had been selected. I was beyond excited and nervous at the same time. Not only it would be the biggest painting I would ever do, but also my first public art. Nevertheless, I submitted my confirmation and hoped for the best.

The mural is about appreciating and creating more nature awareness around the neighborhood. Sometimes we go around our busy daily life unaware of the little things that make our lives richer. Such as the sound of birds that accompany us during our commute or walks, the color changes in leaves and the seasonal flowers blooming all around. I hope with this mural could bring us closer and celebrate our relationships with nature.

After getting art supplies, a month later the work began. It was a full week of painting multiple coats of colors, mixing more than a dozen new colors all while braving the summer heat wave. But the experience was priceless: meeting new people who offered support and smiles and completing the work from priming - sketching - painting - sealing, each stage with its own challenges. Seeing your work interact with others in an immediate way had reminded me that we are all connected in one way or another. Especially as an artist, most of us, including myself, like to retreat to our quiet corner and create our works. Through this public art work I realize that my work allows me to communicate to others in many ways that I may not be able to in person. This motivates me to work harder and be kind and supportive to others.

I can’t thank enough Frank Ottomanelli and the board committee for making this happen. The opportunity has allowed me to grow as an artist and give back to the community.

Mural painting on site at Hunter’s Point South by Frank Ottomanelli’s in LIC, Queens, NY.

Mural installed at Frank Ottmanelli’s in Hunters Point South Park, LIC, Queens, NYC.