The Mural Fest

Last May I was painting the mural at Salt Lake Running Company during The Mural Fest. I knew I had to get in and be part of such a wonderful festival. When I got the news I had been accepted for 2022, I sobbed! I was overwhelmed with joy and gratitude. I felt that all my hard work had been validated and was paying off.

This opportunity gave me the privilege to tell a story I’ve been wanting to tell for awhile. If you are not indigenous, #youliveonstolenland. I personally live on Northwestern Shoshone land and have wanted to show my respects with a mural. When I called Darren Parry last year, we were on the cusp of making this happen but it fell through. When this opportunity came up, I knew I needed to call him again. Courtney Mae Muir was the first person he thought of and the moment I spoke with her, I knew he was right! Courtney lights up when she talks about her heritage. She is a warm, kind, and loving human and I’m honored to be able to call her friend. Painting Courtney is one of the highlights of my career. Being able to tell her and her peoples’ story is such a privilege that I will always cherish. But, this mural isn’t about me at all. I may have made it, but I hope it becomes a talking point for viewers.

In her own words “What a great opportunity to be able to represent Native American people in this mural. It’s the perfect opportunity to ensure we are recognized and remembered. I exist because my ancestors fought to survive. We’re still here and we exist in the modern day, and a lot of us look and live just like everyone else.

My heritage has brought me some unbelievable opportunities that I will forever be grateful for and it’s a part of me that I will always be proud to show.”

Thank you, Courtney. This is my favorite mural for so many reasons, and you’re at the top of the list!