Hartford Art School Galleries Honors Alumni Muralists in *Dream Murals* Exhibition

# **Dream Murals: Hartford Art School Alumni Bring Public Art to Silpe Gallery**

The University of Hartford’s Silpe Gallery is set to transform into a dynamic creative space with the upcoming exhibition, *Dream Murals: Public Art with Hartford Art School Alumni.* This unique, community-centered initiative invites six alumni muralists to paint their dream murals, unencumbered by client demands, while also fostering collaboration with the next generation of artists.

## **A Platform for Public Art and Mentorship**

Public mural projects often require artists to adapt to the needs of their clients, balancing creative vision with community expectations. However, *Dream Murals* reverses this process, giving participating artists complete creative freedom. Taking place within the educational setting of the Hartford Art School, this exhibition emphasizes the transformative power of public art while mentoring students who aspire to make their mark in large-scale visual storytelling.

Featured muralists include:
– **Peter Albano**
– **Lindaluz Carrillo**
– **Vaughn Fender**
– **Sophie Groenstein**
– **Chris Piascik**
– **Sophy Tuttle**

Each artist is paired with a current Hartford Art School student mentee, providing a hands-on learning experience in scaling their artwork to wall-sized dimensions.

## **Diverse Themes and Techniques**

The artists participating in *Dream Murals* bring a wealth of artistic styles, techniques, and perspectives to the gallery space. Their murals will reflect a range of topics, from personal autobiography to pressing social justice issues. The creation process will involve a mix of materials, including spray paint, brushwork, and even three-dimensional installations, ensuring a visually diverse exhibition.

Unlike traditional murals, which are permanently affixed to public walls, the *Dream Murals* will be painted on panels. At the end of the exhibition, these panels will be removable—allowing artists the flexibility to reinstall their work in new locations, extending their impact beyond the gallery setting.

## **Honoring the Legacy of Tao LaBossiere (1968-2024)**

A key highlight of the exhibition is a tribute to renowned Hartford muralist and Hartford Art School alumnus, **Tao LaBossiere (1968-2024)**. LaBossiere’s work has left a lasting imprint on public art in the Greater Hartford area, and *Dream Murals* will commemorate his contributions through a slideshow documenting his murals and artistic influence.

## **An Invitation to Witness the Creative Process**

The public is invited to witness the mural painting process in real time, beginning **March 3, 2024**. This rare opportunity provides visitors with an inside look at how large-scale murals come to life, from initial sketches to final touches. Audiences are encouraged to return frequently to observe the evolution of the artworks.

To further engage the community, an artist talk and reception, sponsored by the **University of Hartford’s Alumni Advisory Council,** will be held on **Friday, April 4, from 4–6 pm.** Visitors will have the chance to meet the artists, hear about their creative journeys, and gain deeper insights into the significance of public art.

## **Visit Silpe Gallery**

The exhibition and programming are made possible with support from **the Hartford Art School Endowment, Inc.** and the **Alumni Advisory Council at the University of Hartford.**

**Location:**
Silpe Gallery, Taub Hall
Hartford Art School, University of Hartford

**Gallery Hours:**
– Monday–Thursday: 12–6 pm
– Friday & Saturday: 1–5 pm

The exhibition is free and open to the public. For more information, visit [hartford.edu/gallery](https://bit.ly/41kRosq).

Don’t miss this inspiring showcase where artistry, education, and public engagement come together to celebrate the power of mural painting!