A Canvas of Hope: The Glenmore Mural Project at Providence House
Art possesses an extraordinary ability to bring people together, a truth powerfully demonstrated at Providence House’s East New York housing shelter. Beyond uniting people, art can inspire change, foster empathy, and spark conversations that transcend cultural and social boundaries. It has the power to heal emotional wounds, celebrate diverse perspectives, and provide a voice to the marginalized. Through the Glenmore Mural Project East New York, the transformative impact of art is both seen and felt by our staff and residents.
Spearheaded by Nicole Bowden and Vic Ingram of the Brooklyn Emerging Mural Artist Coalition (BEMAC), this project has brought residents and staff together in a beautiful, therapeutic journey of creativity and community. BEMAC, a coalition dedicated to creating opportunities for first-time and emerging muralists throughout Brooklyn, launched the project with an inclusive workshop inviting staff and residents to brainstorm ideas for a new mural installation in our youth play room. It was an inspiring moment where the community’s collective imagination took flight, propelled by the experienced guidance of Nicole and Vic.
Together, they compiled ideas and crafted a paint-by-numbers system, ensuring that everyone, regardless of their artistic experience, could contribute to the mural’s creation. The subsequent workshops were marked by a serene and welcoming atmosphere. The playroom was transformed into a haven of creativity, complete with assorted paints, brushes, shaping tools, and lo-fi tunes that set the perfect tone for artistic expression. Residents and staff drifted into the space organically, adding their unique touches to the mural over the course of three weekly classes. It was a true testament to the power of art to foster connection and community spirit.
“Getting to the know the Providence House families and staff was such a privilege and joy. It was amazing to see everyone tap into their creativity and surprise themselves; some of the participants in the mural project were painting for the very first time. The shared experience of creating this mural together made us feel like a family” - Vic Ingram
At the heart of this project were the children and teens, many of whom as Vic noted, were new to the art of painting. They eagerly participated, sharing stories of their previous art experiences and their lives with the kind and encouraging BEMAC leaders. The mural became a canvas not just for paint, but for the imagination and inner-most thoughts of the community’s youngest members.
The mural unveiling ceremony was a joyous celebration, marking the culmination of this heartwarming project. Vic took a moment to share the story, meaning, and title of the mural: “Kids World of Adventure and Growth”. The unveiling was made even more special by the words of a young resident, who reflected on her experience: "I really enjoyed working on this project. I got to meet and paint with all different people in the building. At first, I doubted myself." She spoke about her contribution to the banner that features the mural’s title, a poignant reminder of the lessons she learned:
"I was sitting next to my sister and I thought maybe I should add a quote. One of my teachers told me that instead of trying not to be yourself, you should push yourself outside of your comfort zone."
Her quote, "Every Star Shines Differently," now graces the banner in a cloud above a drawing of one child handing a heart to another. This beautiful message will live on in the children’s playroom, a testament to the impact of this project on the community.
The Glenmore Mural Project at Providence House is more than just a work of art; it’s a symbol of unity, resilience, and the power of creativity to bring people together. Through this project, residents and staff have not only created a mural but also strengthened their bonds, leaving a lasting legacy for future community members to enjoy.
