Ever since our Washington State governor enforced the COVID-19 lockdown, many businesses have boarded up their windows with plywood, casting a ghost-like feel through the empty and listless streets.

This eerie feeling isn’t the beloved city or the world we know. Everyone would agree that not a lot of good comes from a global disaster such as a pandemic. In times like these, however, sometimes it inspires people to band together (while social distancing!) and put some cheer back into the city. Our job as artists has been making the world a more beautiful place to be, so we turned the streets into one big art gallery.

On taking a creative risk with David Bowie

In this lifestyle blog, I post about the things that bring joy. My art is on a different website, because it has a mind of its own. I still felt a strong need to contribute and write about the experience—this is our city, the one that I’ve truly felt home in the most.

The creative agency who brought this beautiful outdoor gallery all together is Overall Creative. They asked for a David Bowie portrait to celebrate the LGBT spirit on Broadway. I’ve never painted anything this large before. Since it’s my first mural, I learned that, while taking risks might seem scary, it’s how you grow. Your soul stretches into new horizons and abilities to be discovered. And it’s not just in art; it applies to life.

This experience was incredibly rewarding because it felt like being at one with the city with all these other artists. I got to contribute something that others enjoy, and it exists alongside the work of other wonderful local artists.

A visual treat in the city

The other day, I took a stroll through Capitol Hill to see what other vibrant artwork graced the streets. And, my friends, here’s a visual treat.

These murals will be up at least until May 5, when the stay-home order has been lifted. Be safe, and enjoy this beautiful outdoor gallery while it lasts!