In the Summer of 2024, Saint John Artist-In-Residence, Sheryl Crowley, worked with people of all ages to create a collaborative community mural in partnership with Chroma NB, and supported by a grant from the Saint John Community Arts Board. The mural is made up of multiple sized wooden disks decorated in a variety of art techniques. Each disk is hooked onto a metal grid panel in a way that the display can be constantly rearranged to create infinite displays symbolizing the many ways humans can love, be loved and express their true selves beyond stereotypes of gender, race, religion or abilities.
From Sheryl:
I believe that every person is creative and that we all can express that creativity in many different ways. For this mural I encouraged each person to think of their most true, authentic and fully alive version of themselves. Maybe they are already living that life. Maybe they are gradually finding the courage to do that. I also asked them to think back to themselves as exploring and vibrant 5 year olds with no fear of playing and spontaneity.
I asked, “When you think of your most true self, what colours, textures and ways of expressing this, will you be drawn to in these workshops?”
The results are a glorious celebration of our TRUE SELVES created through 3 workshops held throughout the summer at the Carleton Community Centre, the Queen Square Market and the Pride Market at 506 Container Village. We made 95 beautiful discs bursting with creativity and joy in celebrating our rich diversity as humans.