Rooted
by Raúl Villanueva

About the Mural

This mural celebrates community, connection, and nature. Warm and vivid colors, such as yellow and pink, dominate the scene, contrasting beautifully with a serene blue background. The composition centers around raised hands of different skin tones, symbolizing diversity, mutual support, and collective hope. These hands are surrounded by large flowers and yellow butterflies, evoking transformation, growth, and the inherent beauty of life. On either side, human figures interact with plants and with one another, reinforcing a message of collaboration and mutual care.

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At the bottom of the mural, bicycles parked in front of the artwork integrate seamlessly with the overall theme, suggesting the importance of a sustainable lifestyle in harmony with the environment. The characters' dress in simple yellow garments can be interpreted as a representation of humanity at its core—free of material distinctions, focused on authentic relationships and respect for nature.

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The mural addresses universal themes such as unity in diversity and the need for collective care toward the planet and its communities. The hands, a central element, represent actions like giving, receiving, supporting, and protecting. The flowers and butterflies add aesthetic appeal and serve as visual metaphors for fragility and resilience—key concepts in any community. Whether working together or contemplatively present, the human figures emphasize the importance of collaboration and connection.

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This mural also invites reflection on interdependence. Flowers and butterflies rely on each other to exist, just as hands rely on one another to offer support. Urban art like this mural helps to redefine public spaces, transforming them into places for reflection and emotional connection for those who observe them.

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Raúl Villanueva is an artist known for focusing on public art and creating works that blend aesthetics with profound social messages. His work often stands out for its use of vibrant colors and stylized figures that convey emotions and community narratives. Villanueva draws inspiration from the struggles and strengths of marginalized communities, and his art reflects a deep respect for cultural diversity and local stories. The muralists were given a section of the following poem as the inspiration for their work:

We will root our stories deeply,
like seeds of courage and change.
We will hold each other firmly,
with hope, resilience, and strength.
Here lies healing to grow,
our renewal to stay united.
Community is everything.
Together is where we belong.

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An interesting fact about this mural is that it is part of a larger series of murals surrounding a Target store. This piece and several others were commissioned by Target and other local businesses to reflect the Lake Street community. The artists consulted with the local community to ask what they wanted the artwork to represent. The most common words from this exercise were: rooted, change, resilience, healing, growth, renewal, and together.

This mural demonstrates Villanueva's ability to transform an ordinary wall into a canvas that inspires connection and action. He shows how art can transcend barriers, serving as a point of unity for people of different backgrounds and ages. His approach aligns with the purpose of muralism: to democratize art and foster a deeper relationship between art and society.