It all started with the community of Mineola, Wood County Economic Development Commission, and Flint & Steel funding an innovative mural project focused on unity, togetherness, and solidarity. In a world that seems topsy-turvy and divided, the Unity Mural Project was able to bring together teens and young adults from many demographics, going beyond race, creed, politics, religion, and self-interests, to work on a project that was able to show a future of inclusion in our communities. We had over 100 people put a brush on the wall during the week-long project. Wood County has an opportunity to be at the forefront of this movement of integrity by showing our youth and young adults from every corner of the county coming together to work on a project that will spark more uniting endeavors.
What is the Unity Mural Project?
A public art project, inspired by the ideas of local youth and young adults of Wood County, was translated into a mural by lead artist Louis Valle, which was then painted on the side of Taqueria Plancarte. Monthly participant collaboration meetings and zoom meetings with the muralist, Luis Valle, were held to develop the imagery for the mural and to learn about the mural creation process. In May 2022, the Miami-based muralist and his wife traveled to Mineola to help implement and complete the project.
Who is the lead artist?
Luis Valle, aka El Chan Guri, is a Nicaraguan-born artist, who was raised in Miami, Florida. He earned his Bachelor of Fine Arts Degree in visual arts from Florida State University in Tallahassee, Florida, and his Master in Arts Degree from New York University. Luis returned to Miami to be part of an art movement and worked closely with the community and local organizations such as Arts For Learning Miami, the Miami Children’s Museum, The Miami Dade Library Systems, Boys and Girls Club of Miami, The Overtown Youth Center, Dade County Public Schools, The Art Experience, Giants in the City and Irreversible Projects. Luis has also worked closely with several of the city’s art galleries and art studios to formulate art exhibits and events. He was the co-founder of Brisky Gallery Miami where he served as the gallery director, and curator and was also one of the artists. He is still very active in the Miami art scene, creating commissioned murals, as well as street art pieces on businesses and neighborhoods throughout South Florida. Luis Valle is internationally recognized, having created works in China, India, Nicaragua, Costa Rica, Mexico, Haiti, Dominican Republic, and Cuba. His style can be easily recognized, as it is a blend of influences from indigenous cultures, psychology, spirituality, vibration, and energy. Luis is considered a staple in the Miami art scene and is a well-respected member of the Miami community. His background of works can be seen at Luis's Facebook
What’s next?
The Unity Mural Project kicked off the Wood County Walls Muralist Guild. With many other murals already lined up, we hope to make Wood County the hub of public art over the next five years. If you’re interested in murals or enjoy art, we have a website specifically dedicated to the muraling effort. To find out more or get involved, click the orange button below.
