Problem:
The Tuschick and Simkins family of Block Island approached artist, Sara Pizarro, with a pain point that has troubled the island for more than 20 years. On Ocean Avenue, a major road on the island, the views are incredible- except for one thing. The first thing that locals and tourists would see when they open their doors is an ugly, concrete sewer pump.
solution:
A beautiful mural that would camouflage with the island’s surroundings.
In unison with other islanders, the Tuschick and Simkins family had been petitioning the island’s government to bring in a well-respected artist to paint the sewer pump. After 2 decades, they finally got their petition approved, and selected Sara to take on the challenge.
We documented Sara’s trip to the island and her progression through the mural’s development. In one week, she painted the whole structure with hydrangeas, a flower that grows everywhere around this island during the summer time.
FOR this PROJECT:
We cataloged the progression of Sara Pizarro’s mural through photo and video. The progression video was designed to be tourism-centric, showing off the beauty and experiences one can enjoy on this wonderful island.
Press:
Our pictures appeared in the 4th of July print of the Block Island Times, the island’s newspaper, documenting Sara’s mural development.
Thank you to Cassius Shuman for the interview, and to Beth Simkins and Carol Tuschick for hosting us.
