Creating An Ocean Sunset Mural for Domestic Violence Project Inc. in Canton, Ohio
August 27, 2024
The Impact of Art on Healing Spaces: My Mural Journey with Domestic Violence Project Inc.
Creating a mural is always a deeply personal experience for me, but this project was unlike any other. The Ocean Sunset Mural I created for the Domestic Violence Project Inc. in Canton, Ohio, was more than just a painting; it was a purposeful step toward creating a healing environment. It touched a place in my heart that holds both pain and healing, reminding me of the resilience that comes from confronting our past and using it to create something beautiful and hopeful.
The Emotional Connection: My Story
Domestic violence was an unfortunate part of my childhood. I witnessed it at home and within other family members, and while I’ve managed to block out many of the painful memories, the trauma still lingers in my body. Even now, the sound of a raised voice or a door slamming can send me into a state of fight or flight. My stomach drops, my hands shake, and tears come unbidden. Yet, through years of talk therapy, my recent journey with EMDR therapy, and, of course, painting, I’ve been slowly working through these memories.
When DVP reached out to me, it felt like everything had come full circle. The opportunity to create art for an organization with such a personal connection to my life was overwhelming. I felt honored, grateful, and incredibly emotional about this chance to contribute to a cause that has impacted me so deeply.
The Impact of the Ocean Sunset Mural on Healing Spaces
DVP had recently received a generous grant from Lowe’s Home Improvement, allowing them to renovate their shelter, including a room known as the Peer Room. This space is designed for community, connection, and healing—a safe haven for women who have endured so much. Originally, it was an old office with stark white walls and harsh lighting, but the vision was to transform it into a peaceful, serene environment where the women could feel safe and welcomed.
Creating the Vision: A Peaceful Ocean Sunset
I began this mural with a deep sense of purpose, understanding that every brushstroke was more than just paint—it was a step toward creating a healing environment. The Domestic Violence Project requested a serene and peaceful painting, something that would make the women feel comforted and at ease when they gathered in the Peer Room. After seeing some of my cloud and sunset paintings on my website, they asked if I could create something similar in a mural form, incorporating pastel sunset tones of blues, purples, and pinks, along with calming water elements.
I ultimately painted an ocean sunset, where soft waves gently lap at the shore, creating an atmosphere of peace and tranquility. The colors blend seamlessly, with the sky and water merging into a horizon that feels infinite and safe, echoing the strength and resilience of the women who will find solace in this room.
An Uplifting Welcome: The Inspiring Entryway Mural for DVP
In addition to the Peer Room mural, I also painted a mural in the front entryway. This mural is the first thing people see when entering the building, so it was important that it be both uplifting and inspiring. The centerpiece of this mural is a powerful quote: “Loving ourselves through our story is the ultimate act of bravery.” It serves as a reminder to everyone who walks through those doors that they are not alone in their journey and that their story, no matter how painful, is a testament to their strength and courage.
As I painted, I thought about my own journey and the power of art to transform pain into something beautiful. It was a deeply emotional process, and I found myself reflecting on the words my mother often said to me: that I would be the one to break the generational curses. Standing in that room, painting those walls, I felt the truth of those words more strongly than ever.
The Grand Reveal & Ribbon Cutting Ceremony
DVP held a ribbon-cutting ceremony and open house to celebrate the completion of the renovations. It was a beautiful event attended by Lowe’s volunteers, employees, the mayor, and other contributors who helped make this transformation possible. Not only did they get to see the mural I created and the new Peer Room, but they also explored the newly renovated closets. What were once cluttered storage rooms for clothing donations have now been transformed into welcoming, boutique-like spaces. These closets now provide a dignified and even exciting experience for women and children as they select clothes, further adding to the sense of empowerment and healing that DVP fosters.
It was an absolute honor to be part of this project, and I am incredibly grateful to DVP and Lowe’s for this opportunity.
For more information about the incredible work that DVP is doing, you can visit their website. And if you’re interested in how Lowe’s is supporting communities through initiatives like this, check out their Home Improvement Days.
Thank you for allowing me to share this journey with you. It’s been a privilege to use my art in such a meaningful way, and I hope this mural brings a sense of peace and hope to everyone who walks into that room.
stay shining and stay creating! ☀️
sincerely, your artsy friend that is rooting for you –
Arastasia Rolain – Traveling Mural Artist, Art Educator, & Creative Entrepreneur
