A new mural is underway in West Park at Puritas Avenue and W. 161st St.
Celebrating inclusivity, particularly concerning those with disabilities, the title and theme of the mural is “More Alike Than Different” and will be painted by Garrett Weider with help from the community.
Weider was approached by those with the Bellaire Puritas Development Corporation as well as those with the organization the Up Side of Downs. Other organizations involved include Hyland Software and non-profit organizations North Coast Community Homes, The Arc of Greater Cleveland, UCP of Greater Cleveland, ADA Cleveland, Koinonia, Youth Challenge, New Avenues to Independence, Inc., and the HELP Foundation.Â
According to Weider, those involved with the project who requested he design it initially liked his work called Bridge Blooms on Bridge Avenue and W. 48th St. in Ohio City. It is “this building covered by flowers,” he describes, calling it a “neighborhood beautification project.”
He says the Ohio City project concept translates well for what he envisions for the new West Park mural at Puritas Avenue.
“Symbolically it totally works,” he says. “I’m switching the design up a little bit. It’s going to have all kinds of colors and flowers and mixing in some of the logos of the sponsors.”
“Having a whole bunch of these flowers that are all of these different colors and things is kind of representative of all of humanity to me.”
According to Weider, the splash of color this mural will bring is going to breathe new life into the area.
The mural kicked off March 21st, also World Down Syndrome Day. Weider says the activity drew the attention of onlookers, who appeared curious and even excited — some even beeping and smiling while driving past.
“Hopefully people want to slow down and take pictures in front of it,” the artist says. “I really want to make it a destination spot… That’s what happened with the Bridge spot. It’s really become sort of like a landmark, and I really want that for this as well.”
According to Weider’s Instagram page: “…’More Alike Than Different’ will bring awareness and celebrates those with down syndrome and other disabilities. I’ll be working with the community throughout the summer and will finish by the fall… “
In addition to this new mural, another mural by Weider can be found inside The Wash House & Cafe at 15149 Lorain Ave.