From the Stillness, A Seed of Hope is Planted

Covid-19 has touched nearly everyone on this planet in some way. We are witnessing daily just how interconnected and dependent we all are. Millions are being faced with uncertainty as we continue to wade through unprecedented waters and transition into an ever evolving new normal. During this period, it’s important that we acknowledge where we are and the suffering we are going through. Find empathy in our hearts for those that are hurting.

As time seems to bend and buckle, an increased awareness on what we can practically do day-to-day, moment-by-moment for ourselves and each other becomes a focus.

Now more than ever, I think it’s important that we tend to and care for our local communities — our “local gardens” — and begin to plant the seeds of hope. It’s up to all of us, together, to design a new way of living when we are on the other side of this challenging time.

In partnering with @charlottesgotalot and Charlotte Center City Partners, this piece is meant to recognize and celebrate the service, tourism, and hospitality workers amidst this historic, tragic pause.

So often the service these individuals provide to all of us is overlooked. In this piece we recognize those who take care of so many on a daily basis. Acknowledging them through this work is my way of giving back, and bringing attention to an often underappreciated segment of society. With this in mind, the young girl in this mural is carrying a backpack full of gifts labeled with the names and occupations of various service members within our Charlotte community.

It’s through the practice of sharing resources that we can begin to rebuild a foundation for our future, post Covid-19 pandemic. A gold and silver map of the world sits behind her head, hinting at the global impact we are all witnessing. Small enduring symbols of hope and perseverance are hidden throughout this piece, including the infinity symbol that sits on her headband...

I'd like for Charlotte to look at this piece and realize that we all can plant seeds of positive change, and move toward a world where compassion and empathy for our neighbors is the cornerstone of this vibrant, diverse city. Every gesture, small or large, matters more than we realize, and it's through these moments of consideration and generosity that we can rebuild a community even closer than it was before.

I chose to paint a child because children are innately prone to this kind of wisdom and hope. Children also have an incredible way of processing emotions. As adults we often get so beaten down by the circumstances we are dealt, that it can overwhelm us. By tapping into our inner child, we can begin to find small moments of peace, stillness and inspiration that we can begin to build upon.

I'd like to see our city take an even closer look at what we can do to truly support one another. As we begin opening our doors again, take this moment to reflect on what you can contribute and how you want to make this planet a better place.

If you have it in you, be the change you want to see in the world.
It matters.