Artist Statement:
"The LOVE mural concept design was created based on input from the community obtained by the creative strategist and community outreach coordinator Erika Roberts. Through a series of community based activities and zoom gatherings I received information from the community on what they would like to see reflected in the mural artwork. Of these activities, the coloring pages of artwork submitted by the community’s middle school students proved to be most insightful. The artwork depicted descriptions or images of colorful and vibrant themes of sports activities, family and togetherness.

In addition to the community feedback another key piece of the equation was a poem that I asked Erika Roberts to write to help inspire my imagination. The poem spoke of love energy that would radiate as a result of the installation of this mural. It was written almost as if it was from a perception of foresight. The “love” element was what stood out and influenced the design the most. I took all those community input ingredients and mixed them up to formulate the mural you now see. I tried to create a mural that would be aesthetically pleasing while complimenting the new modern styled architecture of the building with a theme that was colorful and reflected the love of family, sports and varying dynamics of the family unit." -The Artist SEVEN

About the Artist:
The Artist SEVEN (AKA Eric Finley) is a street art muralist, illustrator and graphic artist native to Chattanooga, TN. He has a B.F.A. from American Intercontinental University in Atlanta, GA. SEVEN is the founder and creative director for the Burnin’ Bridges Street Art Project, and also hosts an annual “mural jam” in Chattanooga’s Southside community. SEVEN strives to make an artistic impact in Chattanooga, while helping to develop a cultural awareness and an appreciation for street art as a relevant and empowering art form in today’s society.

Learn more about The Artist SEVEN.