The artist John Cerney individually painted about 1,100 plywood panels attached to a barn in 2016. I remember when this artwork was being created, driving by as a child, wondering what it would be. Viewing it after completion, I was stunned by the vibration of the colors, the detail of the art, and most importantly, the perfection of the painted soil and crops. The artwork means a lot to me as it represents my community and my agricultural surroundings. I have always been attracted to this artwork because of its representation. My grandparents, parents, uncles, and aunts were field workers, and I felt this was a tribute to all those who worked ten-plus hours days under the blistering sun or heavy rain, those who ensured we had fruits and vegetables on our dinner table. Now, as I drive by as an adult, it gives me a feeling of not only happiness but of gratefulness to view a tribute that was beyond deserved. 

Photo Credit: https://www.johncerneymurals.com/projects.html

What attracts me to the artwork is the words, colors and the differences between all the individuals that were involved in building the murals.

This artwork brings mixed emotions for me, it brings me joy and peace and I feel serene when looking at it. I know there’s nothing but good intention behind the art work and equality for all and it gives others a good warm feeling inside knowing there’s people out there that do notice your pain and they hear you and they're trying to reach you through art and let you know! Another feeling I get is a reminder of where I was when this was made and I kind of relive that time frame and that confusion and aloneness I felt back then and it’s uncomfortable, But it reminds me, those are just feelings I think of myself and not that of the art itself.

There is nothing I don't like about the art, there are a lot of things I do like about the art work, for the lotus mural “Still I Rise” by Carry the Vision I enjoy looking for all the different words of inspiration and wisdom and the ones who mean the most to them like family or friends listed on there. After bad choices or mistakes we make there are all different and very talented people unfortunately experiencing the other side of the walls, but we can all grow and become something different and better then how we went in! 

Hypothetically speaking, looking at the artwork as an outsider and not knowing the inside scoop on it or the meanings behind any of it, I would think the artists are expressing aspiring individuals and their break from something of the past and moving into what the future has for them and having courage and hope. 

When i first saw this art piece its 4 column dimensions and its horizontal structure stood out to me with its beautiful art design which in its self-paints a picture which the artist themselves were looking for. When I did my research on it and its origin, I then found out that it represented the points on a compass on how it brought different people from different nations, backgrounds, and beliefs together possibly in search or new opportunities for a better life which speaks to me as an immigrant myself. I felt a sensation of empathy being able to relate to those who would’ve had similar experiences back then. It also reminded me of the four pillars in Rome due to its set up and shape.

 

I'm here to share with you my recent trip to San Francisco. A little over two weeks ago I was asked by a few friends of mine to take a trip to San Francisco, of course I said yes given it's only about a less than 45 minute drive from where I'm from. It was just a spontaneous trip to shop around. Towards the end of our escapades my friend suggested we visit Mt. Davidson cross. This suggestion wasn't too appealing to me given my lack of religious belief and the fact that it's apparently on top of  a mountain. I was hesitant to go and proposed we get food instead. I was outvoted. After an annoying uphill walk in the mud we made it to the top, where the cross sits. I wasn't expecting much but when I got there I was thoroughly amazed. Towering over me was a 103 ft tall concrete cross. It was so simple yet the magnitude of it lets off a very strong energy. The weather was very dreamy as well, it was crisp and extremely foggy so the atmosphere was more than aesthetically pleasing. Sitting at the base of the cross is a bronze plaque detailing the story behind it. Mt Davidson cross was erected by local christian communites, it was deigned by a man named George W. Kelham. What I come to find out is that the cross serves as a memorial to the 1.5 million Armenians who perished during the 1915-1923 Armenian Genocide perpetrated by the Turkish Ottoman Empire.​ That was probably the last thing I was expecting to read but it pleasantly surprised me. I know that the Armenian genocide goes unreccognised by most americans, because it isnt really talked about. I'm glad I went, definitely a cool experience. 

1.) To me the artwork means we have a lot of work to do. We have to protect our future because soon we won’t be able to enjoy the simple things. 

2.) What drew me to the painting was the butterflies. I really love butterflies so the big butterflies caught my attention. 

3.) The artwork originally made me happy because at first I was only looking at the kids and the butterflies but once I looked at the bigger picture it brought up different emotions. It made me sad, it’s very unfortunate how much damage is being done to our planet. 

4.) I really like the “good” lighter portion of the painting, the children out in nature. It captures a simple, pure moment. However this painting has a more important meaning that it addresses well. I appreciate the entire painting and there isn’t anything I dislike.

5.) The painting reminds me of a yin yang. It’s a reminder that there’s always bad and good in life.

When I look at Kobe Bryant and his daughter Gianna it makes me feel uneasy. Because these great legends are gone and no one would ever be able to fill in their shoes, every time I look at this mural I think about the quote Kobe Bryant once said ‘’The moment you give up... is the moment you let someone else win’’. I was going through other murals and they didn’t include his daughter. I like how this artist featured both Kobe Bryant and his daughter Gianna. The art work itself is beautiful.