E Pluribus Unum
E Pluribus Unum
- Creator: Addie Boswell
- Date: 2022
- Location: Greenbelt
- Types: murals (any medium), mural paintings (visual works)
- Materials: acrylic paint
- Collection: Site-Based Works
This tunnel was once the site of antisemitic graffiti that rocked the Boise community and left many searching for answers to the question, "how do we fight hate?" Boswell answered this question with a quote from the musical Rent, “The answer to war isn’t peace, it’s creation.” Boswell’s design was informed by discussion with the project design team composed of local representatives from the Wassmuth Center for Human Rights, Boise State University, Congregation Ahavath Beth Israel, Boise Police Department, City Council, and Arts & History Commission. Boswell’s work reflects not only her artistic vision, but the input of over 100 community volunteers who came together to rise against hate. Their individual contributions can be seen throughout the mural, adding unique and personal details. The artwork invites you to spend time looking for imagery you recognize and elements you don’t. As you look, consider what it means to be Boisean? What does it mean to feel seen? Artist Addie Boswell is drawn to both the disciplined process of layering colors and the free spirit of recycled and street art. She has a strong practical bend that wants creativity to be useful. Boswell’s vibrant scene is useful: it acts as a beacon of light for all who pass through it. Boswell, assisted by a team of local volunteers, depicts characters radiating light in their own different ways. Weaving together are people who have stood up to injustice, overlapping with cultural symbols and imagery of pride, all coexisting within elements of Boise’s natural landscape. Boswell states, “My faith is in people. There is always extraordinariness in ordinary life, and there is always a story to tell.” Special thanks to over 100 individuals who volunteered time in helping to paint this mural (many who were just out for a stroll on the Greenbelt!) and to these organizations for their involvement: Interfaith Sanctuary, Boise High School, Agency for New Americans, and Synagogue Teen Group.
