Everyday Heros- Listen, Honor & Connect

As a Public Installation Visual Artist, my purpose is to bring awareness to the community regarding the timely importance of listening to one another in today's present times. I believe the act of listening cultivates connection through better understanding and acceptance of one another in both individual and community-based relationships. The idea for this series originated from my belief that listening to another person share their story is an act of love and respect from one person to another. 

 In 2024, I began working on the Public Art installation series Everyday Heros-Listen, Honor & Connect.  I listened to four women share their story with me regarding parts of their life dedicated to service to others.  The series which consists of twelve large oil paintings will be displayed alongside pictures of the women and quotes from their interview as to give the viewer context for the paintings. The accompanying quotes visually link the act of listening to the subjects in the paintings. 

The purpose of the series is for the viewer to recognize the link between the paintings and the practice of listening to another person. In summary, this installation was only made possible because a person (myself, the artist) listened, honored and connected with the women in the interviews. 

 I am incredibly fortunate to be able to honor these women and their service through this installation series and that is a true gift. This series is an amazing opportunity for me because it is alignment with my skill set as a figurative and portrait artist and my purpose and passion as a Public Installation Visual Artist.   Elissa Davis