Ithaca community members will soon be able to enjoy a new mural on West State Street in Ithaca, now in the final stages of completion. The mural depicts local scenery and some people arriving while others come together and welcome them in, reflecting both the diversity and humanity of our community. Passersby may notice butterflies, rolling hills, and Ithaca’s lakes and waterfalls, blending our local scenery with symbols of movement and togetherness. The mural is the culmination of IWR’s collaboration with Bolivian artist Hugo Medina to create a public artwork in downtown Ithaca dedicated to refugees and immigrants. It is being painted on the side of the Southern Tier Aids Program building, facing the courtyard opposite the Department of Social Services.
On Saturday, May 9th, people of all ages gathered to paint the mural under Hugo’s guidance and with help from Caleb Thomas of Ithaca Murals. Despite a rainy start, the morning quickly brightened and stayed dry. Onto the white primed wall, Hugo first spray-painted contours and outlines to indicate color boundaries. As painters arrived, they were invited to take a brush and assigned a color to fill in a section of the design.
Over the course of three hours, we welcomed a steady flow of around 30 participants, including IWR program volunteers, staff, board members, supporters, friends, and passersby. Eight children, ages 3 to 11, joined in the action, and even Sara Tro, our photographer for the day, picked up a brush.
The atmosphere was collaborative, lively, and joyful. People chatted and connected as they painted side by side. “The paint day process itself brought to life the spirit of welcome and connection we want to convey with this artwork. It was a beautiful shared experience!” said IWR’s Development Director Leila Wilmers. Participants worked together at the edges of their sections, and navigated shared spaces collaboratively. Some painted from the ground while others bravely climbed up ladders and onto the roof of a shed to reach higher parts of the wall. Music added to the festive energy, creating a vibrant sense of celebration and community.
Painters enjoyed pastries donated by Wide Awake Bakery, as well as coffee given by Gimme! Coffee, and juice for the younger artists. Several spoke about how much fun they had giving back to the community. Many were grateful to get to paint a mural for the first time and meet new people.
From our paint day guestbook:
“This is such a fun and meaningful idea! I loved getting to paint and meet everyone. Thank you for all the conversations. It has been a great way to start the weekend.”
“Thanks for making our city brighter and more welcoming.”
By the end of the morning, nearly the entire wall had been covered, revealing a bright and inviting backdrop. Hugo told us: “The community came out and did a wonderful job. It truly is my favorite part of starting a new mural.” We all left feeling excited to see how the final piece would evolve. Over the rest of this month, Hugo is layering in figures and details that will complete the piece.
All are welcome to join us in celebrating the completion of the mural at our ribbon cutting ceremony on Wednesday June 3rdat 1pm. Location: by the mural at 314 W State St, Ithaca. Please note that this event will be public and photographs may be published by local media.
This project was made possible in part with funds from the New York State Council on the Arts, administered by the Community Arts Partnership, and in part by a grant from the Tompkins County Tourism Program.
Photo credit: Sara Tro Photography
