A colorful mural that includes the word peace in the many languages spoken by Brantford residents was unveiled on Friday.
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The Community Peace Mural covers the wall of the stairwell connecting Colborne Street East to Water Street. It is based on the ideas and imagery of residents who participated in a workshop led by muralist and facilitator Yasaman Mehrsa.
The workshops were held weekly to give participants an opportunity to share imagery that illustrate concepts of peace from different cultural and social background, Brantford City Coun. Linda Hunt said.
“The willow tree so beautifully depicted was identified as a crucial element of our natural environment that symbolizes peace for many people,” Hunt said “Additionally, our history and connection to the Grand River was also identified as an important focal point for the mural allowing words of peace in the many languages spoken by community members to flow throughout the scenery.”
The inspiration for the mural came from the Pieces for Peace series, a cultural knowledge-exchange partnership developed by Imam Abu Noman Tarek, the Laurier Hub for Community Solutions and the City of Brantford.
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The series gives people an opportunity to share lived experiences and insights into misunderstood elements of cultures, identities and beliefs.
Those participating in Pieces for Peace then began talking about turning their discussions into a public mural. They then decided to hire a professional artist and muralist – Mehrsa – to guide their efforts to come up with a mural depicting community peace, finding unity by celebrating our differences.”
Coun. Mandy Samwell and city officials attended the unveiling They were joined by Sharon Gashgarian, Tracey Winter, Bonnie Opper, Birgitta Pavic and Laura Almeida who participated in the workshops.
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