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Celebrating LGBTQIA+ Joy, Expression, and Resilience: The Garden of Eden Revisited


Section of the "Garden of Eden" mural by artists Toni Duplechain-Jones and J. Martel

In a world that's casting an ever-widening net of acceptance and inclusivity, despite the old guard's protests against it, public art plays a vital role in capturing and promoting the spirit of diverse communities. Murals, in particular, can convey critiques of power, affirm the inherent dignity of human existence, and foster a sense of shared responsibility to our world and each other. In May, a new mural emerged in Mid City, embodying the essence of LGBTQIA+ joy, expression, and resilience. Vibrantly mixing modern social commentary with the inspiration from historical painters (composition from Jean Honore’ Fragonard and the lighting of Jean Claude Gotting) this piece embraces the “good” of all bodies in all forms.


Highlighting the Christian creation story of the Garden of Eden, the mural painted by Toni Duplechain-Jones and J Martel presents the full garden’s inhabitants in all their unique splendor. As a symbol of freedom, this mural showcases individuals of various perceived gender identities and diverse expressions in their natural state, just as their omnipotent, free-will-granting “creator” would have intended.


Located on the back of The GroWorking Space/RepCap offices at 2964 government street, facing a bustling parking lot adjacent, to our French’s Truck Coffee, this piece is sure to captivate pedestrians and customers, alike.


At the core of this mesmerizing artwork lies a celebration of self-expression. The mural honors the vibrant spectrum of queer-bodied experiences, encouraging everyone to be unapologetically themselves. Resilience is an intrinsic part of the LGBTQIA+ community's narrative, marked by struggles against discrimination and social stigma. Beyond its visual appeal, the mural serves as an educational tool, sparking conversations and challenging societal norms. It invites viewers of all backgrounds to learn about the LGBTQIA+ community, its history, and its diverse experiences. Through its artistry, the mural encourages empathy and visually empowers individuals to express themselves authentically.


Please see below for more images of the mural or visit its page here.

In a world that's casting an ever-widening net of acceptance and inclusivity, despite the old guard's protests against it, public art plays a vital role in capturing and promoting the spirit of diverse communities. Murals, in particular, can convey critiques of power, affirm the inherent dignity of human existence, and foster a sense of shared responsibility to our world and each other. In May, a new mural emerged in Mid City, embodying the essence of LGBTQIA+ joy, expression, and resilience. Vibrantly mixing modern social language with the inspired composition of Jean Honore’ Fragonard and the lighting of Jean Claude Gotting this piece embraces the “good” of all bodies in all forms.


Highlighting the Christian creation story of the Garden of Eden, the mural painted by Toni Duplechain-Jones and J Martel presents the full garden’s inhabitants in all their unique splendor. As a symbol of freedom, this mural showcases individuals of various perceived gender identities and diverse expressions in their natural state, just as their omnipotent, free-will-granting “creator” would have intended. Located on the back of The GroWorking Space/RepCap offices at 2964 government street, facing a bustling parking lot adjacent, to our French’s Truck Coffee, this piece is sure to captivate pedestrians and customers, alike.


At the core of this mesmerizing artwork lies a celebration of self-expression. The mural honors the vibrant spectrum of queer-bodied experiences, encouraging everyone to be unapologetically themselves. Resilience is an intrinsic part of the LGBTQIA+ community's narrative, marked by struggles against discrimination and social stigma. Beyond its visual appeal, the mural is an educational tool, sparking conversations and challenging societal norms. It invites viewers of all backgrounds to learn about the LGBTQIA+ community, its history, and its diverse experiences. Through its artistry, the mural encourages empathy and visually empowers individuals to express themselves authentically.


To see more of the mural photos, please go here.


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