Overview:

Hiram College, a prestigious liberal arts institution in Hiram, Ohio, sought to transform a vacant wall on their campus into a powerful and dimensional mural. They envisioned a piece that would not only beautify the space but also embody the legacy of inclusion and the spirit of the Black Lives Matter movement. To bring this vision to life, Hiram College collaborated with Woodshed Creative, leveraging our expertise in 3D art installations.

Challenge:

Hiram College faced the challenge of turning a flat, uninspiring wall into a dynamic and engaging piece of art that would resonate with students, faculty, and visitors. The mural needed to be more than just visually appealing; it had to convey a strong message of unity and inclusion while incorporating various elements to create a sense of depth and perspective. It also had to be designed to withstand the brutal Northeast Ohio weather and stand the test of time.

Solution:

Working closely with the artist commissioned by Hiram College, Woodshed Creative took on the task of producing a three-dimensional wall mural that would exceed expectations. Our solution involved creating rigid “banners” that extended off the wall, adding layers of visual interest. Additionally, we crafted a wall-wrap crowd scene near the bottom of the mural, providing a sense of solidarity, and a standalone 2D figure in the foreground to serve as a focal point, drawing viewers into the piece.

Inspired by a diverse group of Hiram students, the concept of the BLM mural can be considered an outward expression of how students embrace Hiram’s five Core Values: Community, Learning, Responsibility, Diversity, and Innovation.

- Jenelle (Bayus) Sanders, Hiram College

Execution:

The project began with detailed planning and collaboration sessions between the visual artist and our in-house design team. We ensured that every aspect of the mural aligned with Hiram College’s vision and message.

Elements were designed, fabricated, cut, and printed from various weather-resistant materials for a uniquely “collective” multimedia look and feel, and strategically placed to enhance the dimensional effect, making the mural a truly immersive experience.

While most elements were printed in-house, a group of dedicated students gathered on Martin Luther King, Jr. day to hand-paint a few of the pieces, adding a personal touch and connection to their alma mater.

Impact:

The completed mural has become a significant feature on Hiram College's picturesque campus, drawing attention and praise for its artistic and social impact. It serves as a daily reminder of the college's commitment to inclusion and the importance of the Black Lives Matter movement. The 3D elements have added a unique and engaging dimension to the space, making the mural a popular spot for reflection and discussion among the campus community.

For more details on the mural and its significance, you can read the full article here.