Onward & Upward is a collaborative mural that was done as part of a collective of artists in Grand Rapids, MI who came together to raise awareness and give a voice to Black Artists and Artists of Color after the riots in 2020 destroyed most of the public windows and property. There were hundreds of artists who painted and were lead by a team of seven incredible Black and BIPOC artists, known as Element 7. In late August and early September the plywood panels went up for auction as the existing windows were fixed. However, Element 7 continues to raise awareness and create opportunities for artists in Grand Rapids. The mural was completed in roughly three hours with my close friend and fellow illustrator Erica Bradshaw, and together we hope you are inspired by it's message!
Onward & Upward
Exterior Paint on Plywood Panel, each approx. 5' x 5'
June 2020
Grand Rapids, MI