Erin Patrice Neighborhood Bench Project

TITLE: Erin Patrice Neighborhood Bench Project
ARTIST: Erin Patrice
DATE: 2023
TYPE: Mural
MEDIUM: Paint

ABOUT: The Midland Area Community Foundation selected fourteen artists to paint twelve benches and 2 picnic tables and transform them into usable murals in a move to beautify the downtown space and give the community an artistic voice. Artist Erin Patrice gave an artist statement for the project, "I am Erin Patrice- the creator of the Breaking Bread Village. I enjoy creating fun and safe spaces. I also enjoy creating in other ways by painting, crafting, and jewelry making- for fun! Decided to be a part of this project to walk alongside other artist and leave a mark along the way.

Meet Grace: The idea behind the bench message is that the lady painted is a representation of grace. Her very presence is grace. Grace is needed and wanted. We can give it and receive it. When we allow space for healthy dialogue- active listening happens- and once we listen understanding comes shortly after. Once we’ve understood we can apply grace. We all want to be understood and shown a little grace. So my little seed I wanted to plant was that- by way of this painting.

It takes strength to give grace to others. And we all can’t be strong all then time. But we can help each other and be a shoulder when the other is feeling weak of fatigued. That happens by walking along side the other and giving the wonderful gift of grace."

LOCATION: Stranded Yarn & Coffee, 132 Ashman Circle, Midland MI, 48642