Part of an artist-in-residence exchange initiated by Roanoke Valley Sister Cities, this mural is a collaboration between Brazilian artist Thiago Valdi and local muralist Jon Murrill. This mural depicts Danielle Austin, an educator and resident in Roanoke. Behind her are streaks of yellow, gold, turquoise, purple, and green that connect to the second image of a nightingale. Valdi is from Roanoke’s sister city Florianopolis, Brazil, and was chosen by Roanoke College for the artist-in-residence exchange program. His technique is very realistic with bright colors that have brought recognition across the world. As Thiago states, “I use two kinds of techniques, a very precise one, very rational techniques of realism. I also use a lot of expression that I learned from Brazil. The way that they do things, very loose, very free. When you mix those antagonistic things the art becomes more powerful.”

With both artists’ combined styles, the mural highlights not only their unique techniques but also their communities. As Murrill exclaims, “We put together something that I think the community is really going to enjoy. It is something special to the both of us, it expresses each of our styles, and we are representing someone in our community.”

Ms. Johnson’s image comes from a portrait made by local photographer Jennifer Hayward at a “Hairfirmations” event conducted by Marlee Coles and funded through an Artist Action Grant through the Roanoke Arts Commission.

About the artists:

Thiagi Valdi is an urban artist from Florianopolis, Brazil. Starting at an early age, Valdi’s love of art grew from multiple sources like his father and from skateboarding through the streets of his hometown. Known for his realistic portrait style blended with abstract expressionism, Valdi’s work can be seen in many locations across the world. See more of the artist’s works on Instagram at thiagovaldi

Jon Murrill is a muralist and portrait artist in Roanoke, VA. Since obtaining his Master of Fine Arts degree from Radford University, he has exhibited his work in several locations across the U.S. He has also taught a variety of art courses at a collegiate level and has deep involvement in community engagement projects. Murrill’s murals can be seen throughout Roanoke and Southwest, Virginia. Through his work, he conveys his passion for capturing the human spirit within every individual. See more of the artist's works at murrillart.com

Jennifer Hayward is a photographer who has a decade of experience in photography and marketing. Her process is finding her subject’s individuality and then applying creativity to transform her subject to create a unique story. Visit her website at jenniferhaywardco.com

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WXFR Fox: Brazilian & Local Artist Paint New 'Nightingale' Mural in Roanoke