 | Creations Virtual Accessible Art Gallery Mental Health Association of Northwestern PA |  |
| Creations Virtual Accessible Art Gallery Mental Health Association of Northwestern PA | |
"The tide is turning as paint turns the wall into a majestic blue ocean. This is the start of the mural that will grace the walls of the Café.
I have added two adult dolphins to the picture along with their two babies.
I will tell you my hands are full, trying to capture their sleek, smooth figures."
The artist begins to develop the undersea environment by adding a coral reef and underwater vegetation under the watchful eye of an appreciative dolphin.
A photo of the aquarium at stage 2. Textual Description of Day Two
"The ocean’s floor is finally covered with green foliage, rocks, black coral and reflection from the surface.
Light peers; creating shadows and highlights that I have been trying to capture.
The picture is starting to appear with more depth as we move forward adding a few strands of seaweed and black coral.
But this is far from my vision."
A photo of the aquarium at stage 3. Textual Description of Day Three
"Finally the sea is pulling together as the coral reef is almost done. You now can see the depth of the mural I have been trying to create, expanding and filling every inch of the wall and our eyes.
I am now moving on and adding some fish and sea creatures to the mural. Ron Cooley and David McClure are assisting me. I will move forward with the force of a tiger’s claws, excited about the outcome that tomorrow will bring."
A photo of the aquarium at stage 4. Textual Description of Day Four
"The mural is turning into a sea of grace as the seal and dolphins are at their final stage.
I have outlined some more fish on the mural, which will be painted by the members of the Consumer Center.
Each one will be given credit for their efforts.
I feel confident that the mural will be something that people will appreciate and admire.
And if it brings some serenity and joy to even one person then all the work I have done was well worth the pay."
A photo of the aquarium at stage 5. Textual Description of Day Five
Several members of the association have welcomed the opportunity to contribute to the painting of the mural.
Daniel Toney, the artist painting this mural, also teaches our ongoing art class.
A photo of the aquarium at stage 6. Textual Description of Day Six
The fish that I had drawn were painted by most of the members and staff, each adding their own creativity to the mural. This participation gives each and every one of them a sense of ownership and joy, as the mural seems to be coming to an end. Fish by fish, wave by wave, placing the final touches to this work of art as the sun sets slowly over the ocean once more.
A photo of the finished mural project.
©2005 Mental Health Association of Northwestern PA