The Walls Project Unveils Its 241st Mural at Roshni Healing Arts Sanctuary in Aurora
On September 5th, at the Roshni Healing Arts Sanctuary in Aurora, Colorado, over 50 members of the community gathered to paint and put the finishing touches on a brand new 3-wall mural that transformed the walls of the Roshni space into a beautiful span of public art. Officially unveiled at the opening reception of the 6th annual New American Arts Festival, the new mural—conceptualized and created by muralist Juancho—is a vibrant depiction of the people, faces and identities, who call the area home.
The Roshni Mural is officially the 241st mural painted by The Walls Project organization, and represents a highly visible investment in the East Colfax Boulevard corridor and the Aurora Cultural Arts District (ACAD). East Colfax is one of Aurora’s most diverse and culturally significant corridors, and public art provides an opportunity to ensure that its physical environment reflects the creativity, experiences, and voices of its people.
“I’m so grateful to The Walls Project and to Juancho for making this amazing mural that’s [representative of] our collective story,” said Deepali, Founder and Artistic Director of Roshni. “We would like for all of you to come and see it. Welcome to the Roshni Mural at The Sanctuary.”
This latest mural project transforms Roshni into another visual landmark along Colfax while contributing to a larger concentration of arts and cultural activity within ACAD. Rather than viewing a mural simply as beautification, The Walls Project approaches public art as creative placemaking: using art to strengthen identity, create welcoming spaces, support artists, encourage community pride, and help residents see themselves reflected in the places they use every day.
An especially important part of this project was the process behind the artwork. Community members and volunteers participated in activities inside the Roshni space that helped inform and shape the future mural. These participatory efforts make the finished artwork not simply Juancho’s artistic contribution to the corridor, but a piece informed by the people and stories connected to the space.
The Roshni Mural project was made possible through support from Sprouts Healthy Communities Foundation, with additional engagement from Eide Bailly LLP and the many volunteers who contributed their time and perspectives.
Together, these partners demonstrate what The Walls Project wants to accomplish throughout Aurora, Colorado: bringing philanthropy, businesses, artists, nonprofits, volunteers, and residents together to make meaningful investments in community-based assets.
One mural. Many hands. One community.
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