The Story Behind Our New Mural

In downtown Appleton, a vibrant and meaningful mural now adorns the walls of Fox Valley Literacy, telling a story of hope and togetherness. This wonderful creation is the work of Gregory Frederic, an artist with a powerful story to tell. Gregory shared with us the journey behind the creation of our mural, a story filled with hope, perseverance, and community spirit.

Gregory’s journey to becoming an artist is as colorful as his paintings. Back in Haiti, he started painting on T-shirts, turning them into unique pieces of art. Over time, with the support of friends and dedication to art, he honed his skills and eventually found his way to the United States.

The mural, a symbol of hope and resilience, was a collaborative effort. Gregory met with tutors, students, and staff to brainstorm and create a design that would resonate with Fox Valley Literacy, but especially with the students.

Painting the mural wasn’t an easy task. Gregory had to commute from Green Bay to downtown Appleton, juggling the unpredictable weather and the challenges of painting on brick. As he worked on the mural, community members stopped to take photos, offer words of encouragement, and share their appreciation for his art.

As Gregory worked on the brick canvas, people couldn’t help but be drawn to the captivating art. “I had a few folks stop by, and one of them kept taking pictures. I didn’t know who he was, and then one day, he and his wife brought me a large photo of me standing on the ladder, working on it. It was so amazing to see how the community was responding to it,” Gregory shared with a smile.

The mural’s strong message with the word “hope” started to resonate with people even before it was finished. “Another person stopped by and said that this is a powerful message that we are putting out there, that we just need at least one person to see it and it’s going to change the way they think.”

We hope that our mural serves as a reminder that everyone, regardless of where they come from, can find common ground and hope. The vibrant colors tell a story of resilience and the human spirit, serving as a beacon of positivity for all who encounter it. Above all, its message of hope is directed towards our students, encouraging them to believe in the endless possibilities that await them. It celebrates the progress of Fox Valley Literacy and its lasting impact in the Fox Valley area. Lastly, it aims to brighten the community’s day and remind everyone that we all come from somewhere, and a better tomorrow is possible.

 So next time you’re in downtown Appleton, take a moment to admire the mural, snap a selfie, and remember, no matter the circumstances, hope is just around the corner!