Blue Hue Studio (Lea Craigie), Metropolitan Branch Trail 227 Harry Thomas Way NE Washington, DC
Artist statement: As I sat down to design this mural, many emotions bubbled up to the surface. I knew this would feel like the most impactful piece of public art I had made to date. With both family and friends affected by a myriad of mental health struggles, this “You Are Not Alone” mural movement spoke to my soul. When designing this piece for the NoMA district of Washington D.C. along the Metropolitan Branch Trail, the first thing that struck me were all of the companion animals accompanying their humans as they jogged, biked and strolled by. I could not think of a more universal or comforting element to include in my “You Are Not Alone” mural than our furry family members. As I worked and met the pets and spoke with members of the community I decided to include some of the animals I met along the way as well as my dear friend’s beloved cats she tragically lost to a fire earlier in the year. While painting, the visitors and I shared stories of triumph over adversity, disability and discrimination. We became friends, shed tears, and hugged. I am so grateful for the deep connectedness this mural movement brings to the community and I cannot wait to share the “You Are Not Alone” message in future locations.
Artist bio: Lea Craigie is a multidisciplinary visual artist born in Falls Church, VA, raised in Washington, D.C. and West Virginia. Lea had the best of both the culture and politics in Washington D.C. and the natural beauty of the mountains of WV. Lea currently resides in Maryland. She hopes to inspire conversation and connectedness within the communities where her thoughtfully designed murals and sculptures find their homes. Lea proudly works in Washington D.C. at D.C. Arts Studios, one of the oldest art studios in our nation’s capital.