Southside Community Launches ‘Hands of Unity’ Mural Project

The Southside community of Fort Worth is celebrating a new artistic initiative with the launch of the ‘Hands of Unity’ mural project. Located at 1000 Lowden St, this collaborative effort involves students and educators from I.M. Terrell Academy, who are actively participating in the creation of a mural that symbolizes togetherness and community strength. The project is part of the city’s Palette Program, designed to transform graffiti into meaningful public art.

Over the past six months, the community has engaged in brainstorming sessions to develop the mural’s concept. This artistic endeavor, described as a “visual group hug,” represents the connections and unity within the Southside community. Local residents have also played a crucial role, contributing personal stories and images of their hands holding significant objects, which will be incorporated into the mural’s design. This approach ensures that the artwork reflects the voices and experiences of those who live in the area.

Previous creativity is also being honored in this project. The mural will replace an earlier piece created by artist Jo DuFo more than a decade ago. The students from I.M. Terrell Academy are leading the charge in producing a vibrant new visual narrative that speaks to the Southside of today.

On October 16, 2023, the official groundbreaking for the mural took place, marking the beginning of the painting process. Margo Gordon, Program Coordinator for the Park & Recreation Department, expressed her enthusiasm for the project, stating, “We officially broke ground on October 16, with the help of Park Operations supervisors and district superintendents, who painted over the previous mural to prepare a clean foundation for the new artwork.”

Gordon praised the student artists, noting, “The students have amazing talent, and I am happy that our program has the platform to display it.” The Palette Program, which was designed as a Graffiti Abatement initiative, aims not only to beautify the community but also to engage residents actively in the artistic process.

City funds are supporting the project, covering expenses for materials such as brushes and paints. Additionally, local artists and city staff are on-site to assist with the implementation, ensuring that every detail of the mural reflects the community’s spirit and creativity.

Residents and visitors can expect to see this unique tapestry of togetherness come to life over the next month, as the mural evolves and captures the essence of Southside Fort Worth.