Bringing Color and Imagination to the Oil City Library

There is a unique kind of joy that comes with creating art for a space dedicated to learning and growth. I recently had the incredible opportunity to complete a mural at the Oil City Library, and seeing it finally finished is a milestone that fills my heart.

Designed for the Next Generation

This project was particularly special because it serves as the entrance to the children’s section of the library. Because of this, the mural was designed specifically with kids in mind, aiming to spark their curiosity and wonder the moment they walk through the door.

The goal was to capture the transformative power of reading. The mural features a large, open book with the inspiring message: “Today a Reader, Tomorrow a Leader”.

From the pages of the book, a vibrant rainbow of colors and flowing blue waves erupt, symbolizing the endless journey of imagination that begins with a single story. These waves spill across the wall and continue onto the library steps, populated by whimsical sea creatures and even a little frog enjoying a boat ride.

The Creative Process

Much like the mural at The Exchange, this project was a labor of love that required both creative focus and a bit of a physical workout.

• Interactive Elements: By bringing the design onto the stairs, we turned a functional space into an immersive experience for every child (and adult!) walking into the library.
• Positive Affirmations: Along the top ledge, we included powerful words like “Confident,” “Empowered,” “You is SMART,” and “You is KIND” to greet visitors as they enter.
• Hand-Painted Details: Every fish, bubble, and wave was hand-painted to ensure the mural felt alive and welcoming.

Building Community Through Art

Art has a way of anchoring a community, and there is no better place for that than a public library. I am so grateful for the chance to contribute to Oil City’s story in such a literal way. Seeing the silhouettes of young readers painted next to the giant book serves as a reminder of why we invest in these spaces: to inspire the next generation of leaders.

A huge thank you to everyone at the Oil City Library for their support and for letting me turn their entryway into a world of color.