MLK Mural To Be Fashioned In Manchester

MANCHESTER, CT — Manchester's Department of Leisure, Family and Recreation is partnering with CT Murals to support sponsored artist, Ben Keller's vision for a Martin Luther King Jr. tribute mural, "Birthing of a Legacy."

The mural will be "installed" this weekend on the exterior wall of the Mahoney Recreation Center off Cedar Street in Manchester.

"Art is more than just something to look at. It has the impact to change minds, challenge our norms, and spread joy and light into a community," said Matt Conway, Executive Director of CT Murals.

Conway oversees CT Murals, a project started by the non-profit, The RiseUP Group, in 2015 to create public art that is "inclusive and accessible for all."

Through this initiative he has completed over 25 mural projects throughout CT, worked with over 15 local artists and partners, and hosted over 300 volunteers to help paint murals.

Sponsored artist Ben Keller, is a young professional painter/mural artist who launched his own business in 2018. He started painting at the age of 12 and hasn't put down the brush since.

His work can be seen across the state of Connecticut ranging from brick facades in
Norwalk, restaurants in New Haven and Fairfield, to back alleys in Willimantic where he is based.

Keller's style of work is best described as "realistic expressionism or industrial romanticism. For his interior and exterior based murals he works primarily with spray paint and bucket paint. In the studio he uses a wide variety of mediums (oil paint, charcoal, aerosol, etc.)."

"By partnering with CT Murals and artist Ben Keller we can continue to build upon the rich tapestry of art and culture in our community,” said Christopher Silver, Director of the Department of Leisure, Family and Recreation, "This mural symbolizes the
commitment of our organization and community to promote and celebrate the diversity, equity and inclusion found in Manchester."

Keller’s vision for "Birthing of a Legacy" depicts Martin Luther King Jr. "as a man bringing light to darkness and represents a symbol for more equal and positive times ahead. While the work will always continue, this mural is a reminder that the light is shining on 2021."

The mural is planned to be completed on Monday by 3 PM.

An official dedication ceremony will occur in June 2021 in conjunction with other Juneteenth celebrations.