Reflecting on 5 Years of Change and Connection
Five years ago, Mending Walls was born out of a moment of deep loss, frustration, and a shared desire for change. In 2020, as the nation watched in horror the murder of George Floyd and the subsequent protests that swept across the country, a group of Richmond-based artists, led by Hamilton Glass, saw an opportunity to take that pain and channel it into something transformative. What started as a conversation between friends would grow into a movement, changing the way we see public art and its ability to drive meaningful dialogue.
The Spark That Ignited the Movement:
Stenciling “We Need To Talk. Black Lives Matter”
Before Mending Walls became a recognized name, it all started in the streets of Richmond. In June 2020, as businesses boarded up their windows to protect themselves from potential unrest, an undeniable wave of messages began to appear on those boards. Words like “Black Lives Matter” and “Justice for George Floyd” filled the streets, becoming symbols of a collective outcry for change.
Among those making their voices heard were local artists, led by Hamilton Glass, who chose not to wait for approval but to act. In a raw, unsanctioned moment of activism, they began stenciling a message: “We Need To Talk. Black Lives Matter” on the boarded-up windows. It wasn’t just a slogan—it was an invitation for a larger conversation about racial injustice, equity, and the work needed to move forward. It was guerrilla art at its core, spontaneous and urgent.
These stenciled words were not just a form of protest; they were the quiet, impactful beginning of what would become Mending Walls. Before the murals were even painted, this act of public expression set the tone for what was to come. It was a foundation built on the belief that art can ignite conversation, build empathy, and move people toward collective healing.
The First Conversations That Sparked Change
Mending Walls may have been born on the streets, but it came to life through the conversations between the artists involved. Hamilton Glass, the founder of the project, started by reaching out to other artists who shared his vision for change. Through these conversations, artists from different backgrounds and experiences came together with a single goal: to use their art as a tool for dialogue and healing.
One of the most pivotal moments of Mending Walls' inception was the first conversation between Hamilton Glass and his long-time friend, Matt Lively. It was a conversation that led to the creation of their first mural, "Intertwined," and the realization that art could bridge gaps in understanding, foster empathy, and create lasting change. The mural was not just about what was painted on the wall; it was about the trust and connection that formed between these two artists as they shared their perspectives on racial inequality.
The first mural marked the beginning of a city-wide collaboration, with over 40 artists joining the project in the months that followed. Each mural became a part of a larger conversation—one that continues to unfold in Richmond and beyond.
Five Years Later: Reflecting on the Impact
As we look back on the past five years of Mending Walls, it’s clear that this project has done more than just transform the cityscape. It’s sparked conversations, challenged perspectives, and created a space for people to come together and address the issues that divide us. Each mural stands as a testament to the power of art and community in driving social change.
The impact of Mending Walls can be seen not only in the physical murals themselves but in the conversations that have followed. These murals have become symbols of hope, resilience, and the possibility of change when people come together with empathy, courage, and an open heart.
But the work is far from over. Mending Walls continues to evolve, with new murals, conversations, and collaborations emerging all the time. As we celebrate the five-year anniversary of this project, we’re reminded that true change takes time, effort, and a willingness to listen, learn, and grow.
Join the Conversation
Mending Walls has always been about more than just the murals—it’s about the ongoing dialogue that they inspire. As we look to the future, we invite you to continue being a part of this conversation. Whether you visit the murals in person, listen to the stories of the artists on the Mending Walls podcast, or simply share your thoughts on social media, your voice matters.
We’ve come a long way in five years, but there’s so much more work to be done. Let’s continue to listen, to learn, and to take action.
Why Own the Book?
The Mending Walls book brings the full scope of the project into your hands—from intimate artist reflections and behind-the-scenes conversations to vibrant, full-color images of each mural. Whether you’ve visited the murals in person or are learning from afar, the book deepens the experience.
It's more than a keepsake—it’s a resource for educators, a tool for dialogue, and a record of a historic community collaboration. Buying the book supports ongoing public art and conversation efforts. Take the stories with you, revisit the lessons, and keep the spirit of Mending Walls alive wherever you are.
