Women's History Month | City of Dunwoody

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This year's artists:

Mackenzie Brown: The Gold Award is the highest award a Girl Scout can earn and must focus on making the world a better place. I would like to address the nation's loneliness epidemic with my Gold Award project. The U.S Surgeon General has declared loneliness a public health crisis because half of the U.S. population suffers from loneliness and loneliness has negative effects on physical and mental health. To combat this crisis, the Surgeon General is promoting social connection through a website that shares concrete steps to take to connect with others and combat loneliness. To support this effort, my mural will contain a QR code for this website that park visitors can scan to learn about actions they can take to increase their social connection. Research shows that the COVID-19 pandemic took a particular toll on young women’s mental health. Social connection can help address this women’s issue. My mural will celebrate women’s friendships to highlight the importance of connection. This mural will promote social connection, highlight women’s friendships, help me earn my Gold Award, and allow me to create art, one of my favorite activities.

Rocio Arvizu: My culture means a lot to me, so I have decided to put two Hispanic women who have made a huge impact for women: Ellen Ochoa and Sylvia Rivera. The side profile on the left is Ellen Ochoa. I have decided to include a known quote from her, "Don't be afraid, reach for the stars." On the right, it is Sylvia Rivera. She also has a quote on her side, "We have to be visible. We should NOT be ashamed of who we are." I was the audience to be able to look at this and be inspired by these powerful women.

Sofia Perez: Through my art I like to show unity amongst women. The entire process of this project from the inception, to the art, to the display and to the community feedback, has made me realize how important it is to have a good support system of women around you in your life.

Serenity Kraus: I am interested in this project because I want to put the spotlight on women in animation. Statistics say that although 60% of animation graduates are women, only 20% hold professional creative roles. I believe that it is important for women’s talent and voices to be represented. I want to advocate for women who are interested or are currently in the field. There is a community that wants to uplift them.

https://www.serenitykraus.com

Hannah-Rose Broom: Design was inspired by Gloria Steinem’s quote: “Without leaps of imagination, or dreaming, we lose the excitement of possibilities. Dreaming, after all, is a form of planning.” The women we celebrate during Women’s History Month had the audacity to believe in themselves. As a storyteller, artist, and teacher, I appreciate the need and necessity for narrative. It shapes our history, our communities, and even our life’s journey. Our personal narrative affects what we think is possible for ourselves. Self-talk is the seed of personal narrative. This concept leans into the use of affirmations and reflection to help develop kind, helpful, useful self-talk, which in turn cultivates a healthy personal narrative. My intention is to create an interactive piece that that uplifts and encourages the viewer to step into themself more fully. I have chosen to embrace a playful style that invites the viewer to connect with piece and themselves. And the reward for connecting with my art is receiving a little commendation and glancing your beautiful smile. The floral motif pays homage to growth, and the flowers are an ode to three of Georgia’s native plants - the sunflower, the coneflower, and the passionflower. I’m a nature-girl at heart. I admire the cheer, color, and whimsy flowers portray; yet, they are deceivingly sturdy and resilient. This yearly mural provides me an opportunity to reflect on my journey as a woman – who I admire, what I’ve learned, and what kind of legacy I want to forge. I am grateful for the trails blazed before me, and my aim is to share the love and support to those behind me.

Website: https://hannahrosefineart.com
Instagram: @hannahrosebroom, @frameworthygallery

Kirsten Sandlin: The theme for this mural revolves around celebrating Women’s history, but--as we are still making history--I think it could celebrate a recent success. As an artist, my primary goal is to produce work that transcends boundaries and speaks to the shared human experience. This dedication is exemplified in projects such as No Fear, which allows people of many different backgrounds to see themselves in the child and find hope in the open-ended statement, and Making Memphis Music which exemplifies place-based cultural pride. One distinctive aspect of my artistic repertoire is the inclusion of children in my murals, a deliberate choice to evoke a sense of relatability and inspire a broad audience across age groups. In my artistic journey, I have discovered the profound impact that images of children interacting with the environment can have on people of all ages. Children represent a universal symbol of hope, curiosity, and the promise of the future that transcend generational and cultural boundaries. Attached to this letter is not only a mock up of my idea for this project, but also a portfolio that illustrates some of my past projects.

kirstensandlin@gmail.com
Instagram: @rogue.murals

Gabi Anderson: As we approach Women’s History Month, my focus centers on the indomitable spirit of Sally Ride, the trailblazing astronaut who shattered the stratospheric ceiling, becoming the first American woman to voyage into space. By bringing Sally Ride to life on the expansive canvas of a mural, I aim to awaken a sense of wonder and admiration for the accomplishments of women in fields traditionally dominated by men. Just as Ride’s journey pushed the boundaries of space exploration, my mural endeavors to push the boundaries of perception. I yearn to create a visual narrative that encourages viewers to delve deeper into the intricacies of Ride’s ground breaking achievements and, by extension, reflect on the broader narrative of women’s contributions to history. This mural concept is a call to action to recognize and appreciate the resilience, intelligence, and courage embodied by Sally Ride and countless women who, like her, have made indelible marks on the tapestry of human achievement. This mural is not just about looking up at the sky; it’s about recognizing that the stars have no limits.

www.gabiandersonstudio.com
hi@gabiandersonstudio.com

Amy Patterson: For this mural, my goal is to create a visually stunning piece that can speak for itself. There seems like there aren’t enough words or enough time to encapsulate the female experience. Sometimes, sharing our stories is met with empathy and understanding, sometimes they are met with resistance and doubt. We still struggle to dismantle expectations, and to be taken seriously in environments where women aren’t commonly seen or heard from. We have to learn how to unapologetically say no, unapologetically voice our opinions, and unapologetically say “Excuse me, I wasn’t finished speaking.” For me, it’s been difficult to resist the feeling of backing away, or questioning my own knowledge / the validity of my ideas. This piece is my own way of communicating this internal struggle, and how I’ve had to find my confidence from within myself in order to assert myself when I feel like my voice isn’t being heard. To live authentically is to take your power back- my wish is for other women to resist that feeling of backing down, and step into unapologetic confidence.

https://www.amypatterson-art.com/

Elaine Stephenson: “WE are the Women” sends a message that women of today are the ones who are going to make the changes we want to see in our lives. We cannot wait around for others to come and save us, and the strong women of the past can inspire us. The mural will be painted in a faux mosaic style to represent the idea of individuals or pieces making a whole. The word WOMEN is made up of many separate shapes put together, showing that each individual woman is part of a greater collective.

One of my core beliefs as an artist is highlighting and celebrating women and supporting other female artists. Creating murals during Women’s History Month lines up perfectly with this mission.

Website: elainestephenson.com
Instagram: @artsy_elaine

2023 Contributing Artists

Elaine Stephenson: Elaine Stephenson is an artist, designer and muralist in Atlanta, GA. She has been a graphic designer for over 10 years, but has been painting since an early age. She studied graphic design at the University of Georgia, which ignited her love for typography, lettering and composition. She partners with small businesses and entrepreneurs to create a complete visual experience for clients, from logo design to branded murals for their spaces. Elaine is also becoming more involved in public art and has several permanent artworks in communities around Atlanta, including a 4,700 sq. foot bridge mural in the West End.

Amy Patterson: Amy Patterson is a painter and muralist from Dunwoody who illustrates modern psychological dilemmas, history, and everyday life in a vibrant, experimental way. Her work has been featured at Omni Coffee, Calle Latina, MINT Gallery, Kibbee Gallery, Land of a Thousand Hills, and many other locations around Atlanta. LeMarques McClide: LeMarques Manuel McClide is a native of Atlanta, Georgia. At the age of 4, LeMarques’s mother discovered his talent for drawing from his uncommissioned artwork on the living room wall. The picture depicted a man standing near a railroad track. LeMarques often depicted persons, graffiti, landscapes and buildings in his early childhood artwork. This unique talent led him to enrollment at the Dekalb School of the Arts, a prestigious public performing arts high school in Atlanta. While matriculating, he developed a strong passion for visual arts and theater production. After graduating from high school, he decided to attend Southern Polytechnic State University (now part of the Kennesaw State University campus network) where he studied architecture and construction and graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Construction Management. In 2012, he achieved a Master of Education in Professional Counseling at the University of West Georgia. In 2015, LeMarques reignited his passion and love for acrylic painting. Some of his most influential artists are Michelangelo, Vincent Van Gogh, Daniel Arsham, Pablo Picasso, Stuart Davis, Vik Muniz, Frida Khalo, Salvador Dalí. LeMarques depicts his creative and unique visions through his paintings and projects. He continues to elevate and develop his talents, while equally encouraging others to manifest their talents.

2022 Contributing Artists

Contributing Artists:

Hannah-Rose Broom

Hannah-Rose Broom is an actor, mixed media artist, and yoga teacher. Her work is rooted in meditative practices, wherein she explores themes of the physical manifestations of emotion, projection, and reflection. A proverbial wearer of glitter, she is seen for her flair and also known for her quiet contemplation, thoroughness, and understanding. She finds tremendous joy in collaboration and is, admittedly, a bit of an idealist. Hannah-Rose is a member of The B Complex artist community. She is represented by Stewart Talent for acting and by Frame Worthy Gallery for visual art. She resides in East Atlanta with her partner and super mutt, Oskar.

LeMarques McClide

McClide Headshot 1.19.22 LeMarques Manuel McClide is a native of Atlanta, Georgia. At the age of 4, LeMarques’s mother discovered his talent for drawing from his uncommissioned artwork on the living room wall. The picture depicted a man standing near a railroad track. LeMarques often depicted persons, graffiti, landscapes and buildings in his early childhood artwork. This unique talent led him to enrollment at the Dekalb School of the Arts, a prestigious public performing arts high school in Atlanta. While matriculating, he developed a strong passion for visual arts and theater production. After graduating from high school, he decided to attend Southern Polytechnic State University (now part of the Kennesaw State University campus network) where he studied architecture and construction and graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Construction Management. In 2012, he achieved a Master of Education in Professional Counseling at the University of West Georgia. In 2015, LeMarques reignited his passion and love for acrylic painting. Some of his most influential artists are Michelangelo, Vincent Van Gogh, Daniel Arsham, Pablo Picasso, Stuart Davis, Vik Muniz, Frida Khalo, Salvador Dalí. LeMarques depicts his creative and unique visions through his paintings and projects. He continues to elevate and develop his talents, while equally encouraging others to manifest their talents.

Moses Miyagi

Moses Miyagi Bio pic Moses Miyagi is an abstract artist based in Atlanta, Ga. He specializes in celestial subject matter and works in the mediums of acrylic paint and oil pastel.

Elma Orr

Background: Elma Orr has a major in Economics, as well as a Diploma of Post-Graduation in International Economics. She worked 20+ years in Purchasing and Contracts for an Aircraft Manufacturer and Ford Motor Co. in Brazil and in the USA. She is a self-taught artist who started painting as a hobby and later decided to build upon her passion for art. Elma has been living in Dunwoody for 8 years.

Affiliations: Elma is a current member of Dunwoody Fine Art Association. Before moving to Dunwoody, she was a member of the Yoknapatawpha Arts Council in Oxford, MS, and the of MAC – Mississippi Arts Commission, in Jackson, MS. She also was a grant recipient from the National Endowment for the Arts, through the MAC. In Grenada MS, Elma was a Downtown Association Committee board member, supporting projects for Downtown Revitalization.

Works: Elma paints in oils and acrylics and has held many art shows in Grenada, MS, Oxford, MS, Greenwood, MS and in San Francisco, CA. She has sold to many collectors in Mississippi, Tennessee, Florida, Michigan, Georgia, and Saudi Arabia.

Amy Patterson

Amy Patterson is a Contemporary Realist artist who illustrates the bridge between the digital world and the material world. She explores the physical, psychological, and even spiritual qualities that a curated self-image brings to the palette. Her work has been featured at MINT Gallery, Kibbee Gallery, the Zuckerman Museum of Fine Arts, ArtsXchange, Land of a Thousand Hills, and many other locations around Atlanta. She is currently working as an art tutor for Sparketh.com, and for Presence Models and Talent both internally and as talent.

Elaine Stephenson

Elaine Stephenson is an artist, designer and muralist in Atlanta, GA. She has been a graphic designer for over 10 years, but has been painting since an early age. She studied graphic design at the University of Georgia, which ignited her love for typography, lettering and composition. She partners with small businesses and entrepreneurs to create a complete visual experience for clients, from logo design to branded murals for their spaces. Elaine is also becoming more involved in public art and has several permanent artworks in communities around Atlanta, including a 4,700 sq. foot bridge mural in the West End.

2021 Contributing Artists

Hannah-Rose Broom

Hannah-Rose Broom is an actor, mixed media artist, and yoga teacher. Her work is rooted in meditative practices, wherein she explores themes of the physical manifestations of emotion, projection, and reflection. A proverbial wearer of glitter, she is seen for her flair and also known for her quiet contemplation, thoroughness, and understanding. She finds tremendous joy in collaboration and is, admittedly, a bit of an idealist. Hannah-Rose is a member of The B Complex artist community. She is represented by Stewart Talent for acting and by Frame Worthy Gallery for visual art. She resides in East Atlanta with her partner and super mutt, Oskar.

Eleonore Dendy

Eleonore Dendy is an Atlanta based actor and illustrator. She graduated with her BFA in Acting from the University of Minnesota’s BFA Actor Training Program and is a proud member of the Actor’s Equity Association. Her most recent acting credits include Rosie in DC Universe’s Doom Patrol (Now streaming on HBO Max). Eleonore has always been a creative. Often drawing inspiration from children’s literature as well as the strange and macabre; her artwork tackles difficult subject matter through a childlike lens. Eleonore uses her unique perspective and style to serve as a tool for confronting the harsh realities we face in life.

Ryleigh Hixon

Ryleigh Hixon is a 17 year old high school student who creates and consumes art voraciously. She wants to study and work in scenic design, but also has a passion for social and political work and all things musical theater and art related. Her passions and obsessions have always been a big part of her personality, and they constantly fuel her work. Ryleigh’s work showcases important and impactful people throughout history, using their words to evoke and create change within people and society. This will be the first time her work will be publicly on display, but she hopes it will not be the last.

Elma Orr

Background: Elma Orr has a major in Economics, as well as a Diploma of Post-Graduation in International Economics. She worked 20+ years in Purchasing and Contracts for an Aircraft Manufacturer and Ford Motor Co. in Brazil and in the USA. She is a self-taught artist who started painting as a hobby and later decided to build upon her passion for art. Elma has been living in Dunwoody for 8 years.

Affiliations: Elma is a current member of Dunwoody Fine Art Association. Before moving to Dunwoody, she was a member of the Yoknapatawpha Arts Council in Oxford, MS, and the of MAC – Mississippi Arts Commission, in Jackson, MS. She also was a grant recipient from the National Endowment for the Arts, through the MAC. In Grenada MS, Elma was a Downtown Association Committee board member, supporting projects for Downtown Revitalization.

Works: Elma paints in oils and acrylics and has held many art shows in Grenada, MS, Oxford, MS, Greenwood, MS and in San Francisco, CA. She has sold to many collectors in Mississippi, Tennessee, Florida, Michigan, Georgia, and Saudi Arabia.

Mario Padilla

Mario has a Masters Degree of Fine Art from the New York Academy of Art, where he focused his studies on techniques in oil and acrylic painting, life drawings, anatomy, and composition. His undergraduate degree is in Philosophy from the National University of Colombia in Bogota, his hometown, where he later when back to teach a course on Aesthetics. His background in philosophy informs his current work greatly, as it is always reflective of humans and their context. His inspirations come from the essence and people of places he has lived and travelled. He has had solo and group exhibitions in many different galleries and other spaces, many of which he was the head organizer for—including the Mexican Consulate in New Orleans, the New Orleans Jazz and Heritage Festival (for which he has also been a juror several times), and the New Orleans Healing Center. He works with the Roswell Arts Fund on their Roswell in Print initiative, and was part of an exhibition at the Museum of Contemporary Arts of Georgia “Celebrating Georgia Artists of Hispanic/Latinx Origins.” Mario has always thrived at bringing artists and expressions together for a common purpose, and his collaborative organizing tendency informs the growth of his work.

Amy Patterson

Amy Patterson is a Contemporary Realist artist who illustrates the bridge between the digital world and the material world. She explores the physical, psychological, and even spiritual qualities that a curated self-image brings to the palette. Her work has been featured at MINT Gallery, Kibbee Gallery, the Zuckerman Museum of Fine Arts, ArtsXchange, Land of a Thousand Hills, and many other locations around Atlanta. She is currently working as an art tutor for Sparketh.com, and for Presence Models and Talent both internally and as talent.

Elaine Stephenson

Elaine Stephenson is an artist, designer and muralist in Atlanta, GA. She has been a graphic designer for over 10 years, but has been painting since an early age. She studied graphic design at the University of Georgia, which ignited her love for typography, lettering and composition. She partners with small businesses and entrepreneurs to create a complete visual experience for clients, from logo design to branded murals for their spaces. Elaine is also becoming more involved in public art and has several permanent artworks in communities around Atlanta, including a 4,700 sq. foot bridge mural in the West End.