About This Piece

Artist's Statement:
When I first approached this project, I was struck by the vastness of the space as a whole. I was challenged to find a way to lift up this space while knowing I could not affect every part that seemed to need it. I focused on three main areas; the entrance and exit hallways, the adjacent room, and the larger communal room. The works I designed are intended to bring focus back to the humanity of those who utilize this shelter. The mural “You Matter / You are Important” is the first thing that someone will see when entering the building and the last thing they’ll see as they leave. This matter-of-fact statement is ubiquitous among all people in its acknowledgement that everyone is, or can be, positively meaningful to others. In the adjoining room, a person will find two additional works, a mural titled “Handshake,” and a small interactive audio piece called “Affirmation Station.” “Handshake” continues the focus on one’s humanity with two stylized hands clasping, a near universal symbol of cooperation and equality. The “Affirmation Station” is a smaller version of my public sculpture of the same name. It features a push button that activates a speaker that will play one of more than 240 recorded messages meant to enliven, inspire, and encourage the listeners to be their best selves. The final piece, “The View From Here,” is above a communal area often used for meals. It is a stylized rendering of what may be seen on the horizon from this exact spot if the view was unobstructed. This mural incorporates the famous mountains of Colorado to bring about a sense of place and belonging to those who view it.