Regeneration, Screen Print, original 4.25’’ x 23’’ (installed at 8’9’’ x 49’), 2021
This piece embodies elements from the time period of the original courthouse building (early 1900s) with plant conservatories of that era as inspiration, per the client’s request. The mural originated as a 7-layer screen print, created with layers built from many original photographs and drawings, most from hikes and conservatory visits.
Included are plants to reflect growth, change, interconnectedness, reciprocity and the life cycle - some with specific symbolic meaning - for example, Calendula flowers for healing, soothing; thistle as symbol of resilience and strength in adversity; ferns as symbol of new life, new beginnings, family and hope for future generations; tree as symbol of striving, wisdom and knowledge, and personal development. Also included is the butterfly as a symbol of transformation and metamorphosis, seen around the world as signifying endurance, change, hope, and life.
This mural is installed in a high traffic hallway next to the jury trial courtroom, where staff, prisoners, defendants and victims, jurors, and the public all pass through. Recognizing the often stressful and traumatic experience of interacting with the court system, both the content of this piece as well as the green monochromatic palette were all chosen in hopes of stimulating a natural calming, peaceful, healing, and uplifting energy in the environment.
