Recently, the Hamilton branch of The Enoch Pratt Free Library got a colorful facelift. This mural was designed and painted collaboratively by Jess Langley of White Coffee Creative and Reggie Lewis of Insanely Dope Designs and graciously sponsored by Northwestern Mutual Mid-Atlantic.
Ali Solonche, director of the internship program at NM, spearheaded the project as part of their community efforts for their company and coordinated awesome volunteers from their local offices.
Once we at TBC heard about the project and the idea behind it we were more than enthusiastic to share some of that story with you all - we also asked that the mural/creative team document some of their progress and “behind-the-scenes” candid shots via disposable cameras.
The gallery above contains some of those images!
The mural is meant to bring color, empowerment, and joy to the community. The design incorporates a Nelson Mandela quote about the power of education, chalk-like illustrations to represent both the neighborhood and education, and the amazing “Brain Boy” portrait.
Reggie states:
"Being a part of this project has been an extraordinary experience from the beginning. I’m very honored to create a symbol of strength alongside another local artist that will impact future generations for years to come. As a native of Baltimore, I was extremely excited to give back to my hometown while also fulfilling my dreams as an artist. Teaching locally and using my creative passion to influence students has been very rewarding. I’m hopeful that projects of this nature will continue to inspire the youth to dream beyond their imagination.”
Jess:
"As a resident of Baltimore City for almost a decade and an avid reader, I was excited to add some fun to the walls of the Hamilton library branch! Ali and the team at NM have been amazing to work with and really trusted our artistic skills and vision. I use a lot of color in my murals to bring positivity to spaces, and it's always a treat to create "Instagrammable" moments. This mural was no exception!
Collaborating with Reggie and blending our two different styles created a really cool design that we're proud to add to such a beautiful neighborhood in Charm City. We're so appreciative of everyone who was a part of the process — from the library team, to NM, to all the volunteers who helped! Thank you so much!"
If you go check it out, use #HamiltonLibraryMural for your photos. We'd love to see what you share!
