By Eleanor Trice, ABC
Alexandria, VA – The Blueprint for Peace mural at Bradlee Shopping Center, an Alexandria Beautification Commission 2024 Community Award winner, highlights the importance of community engagement, local talent, and the power of public art. This public art project was the brainchild of Jewel Snowden, Senior Director of Leasing for First Washington Realty, who brought together Alexandria City High School students and local artists, Nicole Bourgea and Sef, to transform a shopping center wall into a meaningful and visually stunning piece for the community.
Snowden shared that First Washington Realty was inspired to showcase the creativity of local youth while engaging the community. “Partnering with students and artists was the perfect way to add something beautiful and offer hands-on experience,” she said. The mural’s purpose was not just beautification but connection. Snowden added, “We wanted to create something that everyone could take pride in.”
The students’ dedication was exceptional, contributing over 50 hours each to the project, making it more than just an art installation—it became a shared experience—bringing the students, artists, and the community together in a meaningful way.”
Snowden advises businesses considering public art projects to “…focus on involving the community. When people are part of the process, the project becomes more personal and impactful.” Collaborating with students and artists created art that truly resonated with the neighborhood.
Reflecting on what makes Alexandria such a beautiful place, Snowden highlighted its balance of historic charm and evolving modernity. “There’s a strong sense of pride and connection here,” she noted. Whether through local shops, public spaces, or neighborhood projects like the Blueprint for Peace mural, Alexandria’s creativity and community spirit are always on display. It’s this blend of tradition, creativity, and community that makes our city so unique and vibrant.
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