Washington Park & People

Christina Lemley

"During the week, when I'm not working on the mosaic, I spend my time working for a national youth program to help prevent crime and promote service. I tell youth all the time about the value of getting involved in their community and doing something they love to make a difference.I decided to follow my own advice while spending some time doing what I
love: art.

I am not a professional artist by any measure, but I grew up with my hands covered in finger paints, took art classes throughout my childhood, and spent years in college drawing, painting, and designing. Art is something everyone can do. It requires no special skill other than the desire to create. I am so impressed by what has been created with Art on the Block. People from the community who stop by and think they don't have anything valuable to add to the project soon learn that they, too, can create a tree from broken wine bottles or use keys and bottle caps as artistic materials.

Art is not something just for old museums or prestigious galleries. Art only exists if there are people to view it and to feel a connection. I hope this mosaic project leaves the neighborhood with more than just a beautiful building -- I hope it leaves everybody with the sense that they can take part in creating something and they can make a difference. I know I certainly feel that way."