Labor of Love: A Mural Story
- 21 hours ago
- 3 min read
Several months ago, I was presented with the opportunity to create a mural for the lower level of Loveland’s City Hall. As I spent time in the building and listened to the ideas of public arts manager Suzanne Janssen, I found myself reflecting on the many interactions I’ve had with city employees over the years.
Again and again, I noticed the same thing—a quiet, steady kind of care. The kind that reminded me of tending a garden.
While working on my mural at the Rialto Theater, Joe, the theater manager, would stop in daily just to check on how things were going. I’d see that same care echoed in the custodial staff, facilities teams, and others working behind the scenes—opening doors, finding equipment, offering encouragement without being asked.
Out on the streets in the early mornings, I’ve watched city workers watering planters, pulling weeds, moving barriers, washing windows, and keeping watch over the rhythm of the city. Quietly doing the work that keeps everything moving.
That same spirit shows up inside City Hall as well. Through my work, I’ve come to know the sales tax and economic development teams. Tonia has patiently helped me through more than a few sales tax missteps, always generous with her time and attention. Others I’ve worked with carry the complex, ever-changing responsibility of helping Loveland grow well—one project, one decision at a time.
And in our public spaces, that care becomes even more visible. I think of Beth, the children’s librarian at the Loveland Public Library, who seems to move through the room with joy—greeting families, asking kids what they’re reading, leaving a trail of smiles behind her. Upstairs, I remember Erik and Danielle taking the time to walk me through the 3D printer for a large out-of-state project, sharing not just technical knowledge but a vision for how those tools could help others move forward.
As I reflected on these experiences, one idea became clear: this mural would be about cultivation.
The people I encounter as a community member are kind, hardworking, and essential to the health of this city. And yet, in the larger story of how a city functions, their contributions are often overlooked.
This mural is for them.
It’s a reminder that there are hundreds of people—across departments, roles, and responsibilities—who have committed themselves to helping Loveland thrive. Their daily work grows both tangible and intangible things in our shared space: culture, accessibility, safety, infrastructure, opportunity, and community.
When I think about that kind of work, I think of a thriving garden. Not the kind that appears overnight, but one that is slowly and carefully cultivated over time. A place where beauty is built through consistency, patience, and care. The kind of work that doesn’t always receive applause, but still produces something deeply sustaining.
Labor of Love is what this mural is called.
It’s a tribute to the people who quietly tend this city every day. A reminder to notice them, to thank them, and to join them in the work. Because a thriving city—like a thriving garden—depends on all of us.
*This mural is scheduled to be installed in May of 2026. It is comprised of three 55" x 26" mixed media panels that feature images that celebrate Loveland's history, present, and future. The mural extends beyond the panels to painted figures and plant elements that continue the story of cultivation into our city's future.
**The images shown are taken from the design protoytpe that was intially presented and the revised design that is currently in process in my studio. To ensure a well rounded and balanced narrative, more contemporary images were included in the final design.