Art x Love was engaged by Akron City Councilwoman Tara Samples to coordinate production of Akron’s Black Lives Matter mural in response to the murder of George Floyd. Art x Love organized a team of local artists to lead mural creation and guide volunteers. Nichole Epps, April Couch, Alexandria Couch, and Gyasi Jones worked together with Councilwoman Samples to develop the creative vision for the mural. Art x Love served as the liaison between the artists and organizers, secured all materials, staged a COVID-safe collaborative production, and advocated for responsible and equitable practices across all phases of implementation.

Akron’s Black Lives Matter Mural was the first to be painted in Ohio, and is one of many that express the public outrage, cry for justice, and call for systemic change to combat racism. This important and highly sensitive project holds a deep meaning for our community and the nation as a whole.

The artists, organizers, and volunteers created the mural in solidarity and in memory of those whose lives have been taken by the public health crisis of racism. Days before the mural site was selected by the City of Akron, Na’Kia Crawford was shot and killed at the nearby intersection of North Howard and E. North Street, in Akron’s Cascade Valley neighborhood. Our faith and thoughts were with those whose lives have been, are, and will continue to be effected by the scourge of racism. We will continue to speak out against injustice, embrace diversity, and equitably invest in our communities to overcome society’s past and systemic failures.

Art x Love donated its time and services to support and complete this project. We are deeply grateful to all of the volunteers and community members who came out to peacefully protest and creatively express themselves at this pivotal time for our country and culture. Thank you!