Air Liquide volunteers paint murals to commemorate Juneteenth
Published on June 15, 2023
2 minutes
As the U.S. prepares to observe Juneteenth, the federal holiday commemorating the emancipation of enslaved African Americans, 11 Air Liquide volunteers in Houston participated in a unique art project that will live on for generations to come.
Funded by a Houston Arts Alliance grant to Interfaith Ministries of Greater Houston, the 2023 Public Art Project encompasses four murals meant to serve as a powerful medium to commemorate Juneteenth as a significant event in American history. Each of the four murals, similar in theme, highlights the journey of slaves in servitude to community leaders in servant leadership roles emphasizing the values of empathy, compassion and social responsibility.
Nationally recognized artist Reginald C. Adams was commissioned to create the murals. The Air Liquide volunteers arrived at Adams’ studio where they were divided into four small groups. With paints and brushes in hand, they painted the canvases under the direction of Adams’ collaborating artists. Based in Houston, Adams is known for creating award-winning murals, sculptures and art installations in historic and underserved communities across the United States.
The murals will be installed and on public display at four Houston-area nonprofits: United Way of Greater Houston, West Houston Assistance Ministries, Lord of the Streets and Hardy Senior Community Service Center. The art installations are designed to foster dialogue and reflection, inviting viewers to engage with the themes of liberation, resilience and social justice that are central to Juneteenth. They serve as a platform for storytelling, amplifying the voices and experiences of African Americans and their journey toward freedom.
The Juneteenth public art murals will educate and raise awareness about this important milestone in the fight for equality. The public nature of the installation makes Juneteenth more visible and accessible to the community, promoting inclusivity and unity.
Thank you to volunteers Emma Chambers, Donald Greggs (along with his daughter Alana), Itoro Ibanga, Cherie Laguerre (Airgas), Laura Parkan, Charles Sanders, Shante Sanders, Alma Tristan, Shawn Turner and Danielle Williams for participating in this event.
