Mural Collaboration
East Brandon CrossFit - Graffiti Mural
This dynamic mural, a collaborative effort between artist Josh Gilmer and myself, brought a vibrant energy to East Brandon CrossFit. Unveiled on August 8, 2018, the artwork not only reflects the spirit of strength, community, and determination inherent to CrossFit culture, but also created a 'sense of place,' a term coined by Edward Relph.
Sketches
It became more than just a visual enhancement; it served as an iconic backdrop for the athletes who worked out at this location. Capturing moments of their achievements, challenges, and camaraderie in photos against this mural, they contributed to a deeper sense of community and belonging. This integration of art and athletic space exemplified how a creative piece can transcend its physical form to become a central part of the communal and personal identity.
This timelapse process video is set against the backdrop of the Beastie Boys' energetic track "So What'Cha Want," from their album "Check Your Head," adding an audial layer to the visual experience.
The mural was previously located at the former site of East Brandon CrossFit, which was situated at 3017 Highway 80 #31, Brandon, Mississippi.
2. RunStrong - Interactive Mural
At the beginning of March 2019, Josh Gilmer and I partnered again to install the "RUN" mural at RunStrong—a running facility on Spillway Rd. in Brandon, MS, owned by long-time runner and entrepreneur Jeremy Jungling.
The concept behind the RUN mural was rooted in interactivity and personal connection. The mural was more than just art; it was a platform for expression and motivation. Each individual has unique reasons for running, ranging from health benefits like cardiovascular fitness to participating in events like 5Ks, 10Ks, half marathons, and full marathons, often organized for charitable causes. This insight led us to design the mural not just as an art installation but as a tool for reflection and inspiration.
The interactive element in the letter 'U' of RUN was central to our design. Although not visible in the video, we later added a bin containing strings of various colors, each representing different causes: yellow for cancer, purple for Alzheimer's, and black for mourning a lost one, among others. Our intention was for clients of RunStrong to physically connect with the mural by tying a string around the screws on the 'U,' crafting it into a symbol of remembrance and dedication to those they run for.
In a similar vein, we painted the 'R' and 'N' in black chalk paint. This choice was deliberate, transforming these letters into canvases for runners to inscribe their training goals. It was a way for them to set, visualize, and update their objectives. After achieving a goal, they could erase it and set a new one, creating a cycle of continuous improvement and motivation. This interactive mural wasn't just an art installation but a dynamic part of the runners' journeys, continually evolving with their aspirations and achievements.