In the Spring of 2023, I was told about an opportunity to be a part of a collaboration between poets and Artists. The mural I painted was inspired by Joy who wrote this poem: “Fraction of the Universe with The Whole of Existence.” It reads like this. “I may be the tiniest root In the tree of life, A blimp in time, An amoeba of particles and atoms Bringing their way into reality, making my first steps towards shape.  But my accidental existence is proof of my statement, my duty, my power To embolden the wind with my song, Emblaze the sky with my vision, And embody the earth with my spirit.”

This gave birth to a mural, inspired by a poem penned by Joy. 

Joy’s poem delves into the profound notion that despite being the tiniest root in the vast tree of life, and a mere blip in the continuum of time, we are, at our core, composed of particles and atoms that navigate their way into reality. This accidental existence, however insignificant it may seem, carries with it a powerful message and a significant purpose. Joy’s words underscore the idea that our existence is, in fact, a testament to our inherent power. We are not here by accident; rather, we are here to fortify the very essence of life. Our duty, like that of the wind, is to embolden the world with our song, to set the sky ablaze with our unique vision, and, most importantly, to embody the earth with our spirit.

The mural that emerged from this collaboration was a visual embodiment of Joy’s profound poem. It depicted a barren tree that emerged from the earth and reached out towards the vast expanse of the cosmos. This mural encapsulated the spirit of Joy’s words – the idea that we, as individuals, possess the innate ability to make a significant impact on the world around us.

The vibrant colors and intricate details of the mural conveyed the message that, just like the barren tree, we too have the potential to grow, to flourish, and to influence the world with our presence. It serves as a reminder that each one of us, in our own unique way, contributes to the rich tapestry of existence.

This collaborative project not only showcased the harmonious blend of poetry and art but also served as a powerful reminder of the significance of our existence. We may be a fraction of the universe, but we hold within us the power to touch and inspire the whole of existence. Joy’s poem and the mural it inspired continue to remind us that even the smallest among us can leave an indelible mark on the world.