The following was compiled from a press release sent by Wilton Pride.
Wilton Pride, in partnership with Wilton Library and the Wilton Youth Council’s Coalition for Youth have partnered to create the town’s first-ever traveling mural. Officials at the three organizations said the piece “is an initiative to bring art, community and a powerful message of belonging to the forefront of Wilton.”
This unique art installation, inspired by the #WiltonIsWhereYouBelong campaign, was commissioned by Wilton Pride, and the Wilton Youth Council’s Wilton Coalition for Youth.
Designed by local abstract artist Brian Kaspr, this traveling mural was brought to life by the Wilton community at the Third Annual Wilton Pride Be You festival. Under Kaspr’s direction, community members were invited to roll up their sleeves, pick up a paintbrush and become part of the vision in this interactive abstract art.
“This mural is a visual reminder that with simple community participation towards a common goal we can make something larger than ourselves and altogether new. We all belong and together we are whole,” Kaspr said of his vision.
The mural will not be confined to a single location but instead will embark on a year-long journey, gracing various community organizations throughout the town. Each stop will offer residents and visitors a fresh opportunity to engage with the piece, and as organizers said, inviting them to reflect on their own sense of belonging and actively participate in building a more inclusive community.
“Watching the Wilton community come together and participate in the creation of this beautiful piece of art at a festival, symbolizing belonging and acceptance, was truly powerful,” Wilton Pride Board Member Heidi Tsapelas said. “Painting a part of the mural with my family was such a fun way to contribute to the Pride celebrations. We’re so excited to spot it as it travels around town, a constant reminder that everyone is welcome here.”
This collaboration furthers the work of the Coalition’s #WiltonIsWhereYouBelong campaign. The campaign aims to cultivate a stronger sense of belonging and promote inclusivity for all Wilton residents, regardless of background, race, religion, gender or sexual orientation. Organizers said that Kaspar’s abstract traveling mural “beautifully captures the essence of these principles, creating a compelling visual narrative.”
The Wilton Coalition for Youth is a network of organizations, town departments and individuals dedicated to preventing substance misuse and promoting mental health within the community, spearheaded by the Wilton Youth Council.
“Art has a powerful ability to cross boundaries, bringing people together through shared creative experiences and creating a strong sense of community belonging. This interactive art wall will serve as a vibrant and evolving testament to the collective spirit of belonging in Wilton, offering a dynamic way for residents of all ages and backgrounds to connect and feel included,” shared Caroline Hughes, a Wilton Pride board member and senior minister of the Wilton Congregational Church.
“The #wiltoniswhereyoubelong mural is more than just a piece of art; it’s a living testament to our commitment to ensuring every person in Wilton feels seen, valued and embraced for who they are. It’s a bold declaration that #WiltonIsWhereYouBelong isn’t just a slogan, but a lived experience we are actively cultivating,” Wilton Pride founder Farah Masani said.
The mural is currently living at Wilton Library and future locations will include the Wilton Congregational Church, Wilton Presbyterian Church, Wilton Family YMCA, Wilton Public Schools and Trackside Teen Center, among others. The mural’s schedule will be announced in the coming weeks via Wilton Pride and Wilton Library social media channels. The community is encouraged to follow these updates and discover where this powerful symbol of belonging will appear next. Anyone wishing to have the mural at their property can email Wilton Pride.
“Wilton Library has always been a hub for community connection,” library Executive Director Caroline Mandler said. “This traveling mural perfectly aligns with our vision to foster an environment where everyone feels welcome. We believe art has the power to unite and transform, and we look forward to this installation creating deeper bonds throughout the community.”
“The WiltonIsWhereYouBelong campaign is a wonderful collaboration between many youth-serving town partners. This amazing mural beautifully captures and continues the work in an expressive way, illustrating the essence of the WiltonIsWhereYouBelong campaign,” Wilton Youth Council Executive Director Chandra Ring said. “We are proud of all of the work to date and look forward to more activities to build and strengthen the sense of belonging for all in Wilton.”
This project was made possible by Wilton Pride, Wilton Library, Wilton Youth Council, Wilton Presbyterian Church, SASCO River Center, Trackside, SPED*NET, Temple B’nai Chaim, Lighthouse and personal donations.