Mural Magic: How Two students Brightened Their Community Through Public Art
In February 2024, United Way of Gratiot & Isabella Counties hosted its annual PITCH-ER THIS! Youth Venture Competition, challenging students to pitch creative solutions to community issues. The competition is designed to inspire young minds to think outside the box, focusing on United Way’s core impact areas: Healthy Lifestyles, Quality Education, and Financial Stability.
Comprised of two talented students, Claire Campbell and Olivia Harding, Team “Mural Magic” delivered an outstanding pitch that secured them first place, and the competition's traveling trophy! Their idea centered around the power of public art, not just as a decorative element, but as a transformative tool for mental and physical health, community engagement, and accessibility. Their vision? A vibrant, postcard-style mural to be painted in downtown Mt. Pleasant, showcasing the city’s charm and community spirit. The duo’s presentation was thorough and inspiring. They not only described how public art can boost morale and create a sense of pride in local spaces, but they also emphasized its accessibility—public art is free for all to enjoy. Olivia and Claire were awarded $2,800 from United Way to bring their vision to life.
Finally, during the first week of October 2024, their dream became a reality thanks to the talented muralist Kayle Peake! Peake’s artistry and expertise were the perfect complement to the students' concept, transforming their design into a stunning piece of public art. The mural now graces a prominent wall in downtown Mt. Pleasant on the east side of Isabella Bank, with vibrant colors and captivating imagery that reflect the city’s charm and community pride.
As we celebrate the success of Team Mural Magic, we’re reminded of the purpose behind PITCH-ER THIS!—to empower youth to find creative solutions to local challenges and inspire action. Thanks to Olivia and Claire’s vision, Mt. Pleasant is a little brighter, and the sense of community a little stronger.