In September we wrapped up something we’ll never forget—my very first muralist retreat.�

Last year, we started an online mural education company with one mission: teach artists to dream big and bring their visions to life on walls. This retreat was that dream in motion—artists from near and far came together in @Oceancitymaryland to create a mural on a northside wall of the @ocmd_recreationandparks building.

Throughout the week, we worked with rollers, brushes, spray guns, spray paint, ladders, scaffolding, and scissors lifts (everyone even got lift certified). We learned, created, and pushed ourselves outside our comfort zones. We also took a field trip to Salisbury, MD to tour some of our murals—connecting the dots between where we’ve been and where we’re going.

As we painted, people stopped constantly to cheer us on with words like “Thank you,” “It’s so beautiful,” and “Please do more.” That encouragement reminded us why public art matters.

Oh, and we have to mention perfect 70 degree sunny weather all week long!

We want to thank the incredible people who made this retreat so impactful: @Dana_woods_Fields for leading sunrise yoga on the beach, @ZennaWellness for a soul-shaking sound bath, @Sky.crowley for nourishing us with beautiful meals each night, and @BastaPaints for teaching graffiti history and hands-on skills.

And especially @thecolorfulkayak—after serving as our assistant last year, she returned to co-lead the mural install. To work alongside her again after she recently moved away meant so much. Her leadership, talent, and heart carried this project to the finish line.

To the rest of our amazing artists— @carrielane_art @italiavenegas.art @alison.speerbrecker.art and @jackiea.as.in.art —you brought courage, creativity, and community to every moment. I couldn’t have asked for a better group to make this vision real.

Deep gratitude as well to Kate, Susan, Gary, and everyone behind the scenes who helped bring this to life. This retreat wasn’t just about painting walls—it was about connection, growth, and the power of art to bring people together. Here’s to many more walls, more memories, and more murals.