SARASOTA, Fla. — A local artist painted a mural in Sarasota to honor health care workers. The tribute was organized by Sarasota Magazine and the Arts and Cultural Alliance of Sarasota County.
The mural is located at 1717 2nd Street in Sarasota.
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Karen Chandler started the mural in April and it took several weeks for her to complete it.
"It took us about three weeks all together, I think, from concept to finish," said Chandler. "This artwork is about thanking all of the first responders and all of the people who have helped us and done everything to keep us safe."
The mural was a group effort with Sarasota Magazine, the Arts and Cultural Alliance of Sarasota County and Raw Sugar Living.
“Art has the ability to express emotion in a powerful way that touches many people. It is our hope that this collaborative project will convey our sincere gratitude to our local healthcare professionals," said Jim Shirley, Executive Director of the Arts and Cultural Alliance of Sarasota County.
The mural was painted on a downtown office building owned by Ronnie Shugar and Donda Mullis of Raw Sugar Living. It's a company that makes natural soaps and body washes.
The mural represents gratitude for health care workers.
"This reminds us there is more personal responsibility and what we need to do as a community is look to each other and say thanks," said Ronnie Shugar.
The Helming and Knies Family Foundation, Elizabeth and Elliot Rose, Jenne Britell, Michael Kneeland, PPG Paints, The Bazaar on Apricot and Lime and Williams Parker also helped support the project.
"We're hoping this mural is a great reminder to all of our community for years to come of the sacrifices people made," said Shirley.
