There is no shortage of assistance and encouragement from the people at GCPF and Visionkit Studio. These are amazing people who are doing the hard work to make our communities brighter, safer, and more connected. I am so flattered to have been able to work with them, and I’m looking forward to many more projects in the future.

Art is an incredible way to bring life and beauty to any community, and for its members to take pride in where they work or live.

Just keep making stuff! Look to those who inspire you and ask for tips and learn from everyone. It’s scary, but put your art out into the world! Bring it to art shows, sell it at markets, make public art with other artists. The more you surround yourself in your (and others’) art, the more it will guide you to where you want to be.

That’s a long story that may be best shared over a few beers! But to condense it down, making art and sign painting has probably saved my life in at least a few ways. Art is one of the best ways to promote mental health, a sense of personal growth and give you a sense of purpose in life.

Programs like GCPF are vital to communities and their artists. By supporting and encouraging artists from all styles, they are changing the landscape for the better. Drab industrial buildings can be turned into beautiful murals that inspire thought and creativity. These programs also serve as a way to connect artists with each other as well as local businesses, which in turn supports more art and supports local business.

Ice cold watermelon with chili lime seasoning will make those 100° painting days bearable!