By Jill E. Dunne
Sr. Director
Marketing & Communications
Cincinnati Art Museum
ArtWorks and Cincinnati Pride are working together to create a powerful mural commemorating the 50 years of celebrating Pride in Cincinnati.
Designed by local artist Matthew Dayler of Chroma Projects, the mural will capture the kaleidoscope of the LGBTQ+ community through vivid portrayals of protests, triumphs, and celebrations, depicting the unity and inclusivity of Pride. This mural will serve as an inspiring catalyst for positive change, nurturing a profound sense of belonging for those who see it.
This summer, a group of 12 apprentices, each 18 and 21 years old, with Lead Teaching Artist Daniel Baker and Teaching Artist Orion Inez, will bring this captivating design to life. The apprentices will work diligently to complete the mural over the next two months, and a special dedication ceremony will be scheduled in August to celebrate its completion.
“Celebrating Cincinnati Pride with a mural is a testament to the power of art to represent visible inclusivity,” said Colleen Houston, ArtWorks CEO and artistic director. “It boldly proclaims that vibrant expression matters, reminding us that inclusivity is our greatest strength. Through art, we paint a celebration of our past and a vision for a brighter future, where love, acceptance, and equality flourish through the fabric of our community.”
Cincinnati Pride started as a small grassroots movement in 1983 when it held its first official Pride event, according to Dustin Lewis, Director of Programming for the Cincinnati Pride Board of Directors. In subsequent years, Cincinnati Pride steadily grew in size and prominence. It became an opportunity not only for celebration but also for education, advocacy, and community building. The event has embraced a broader vision of inclusivity and intersectionality, reflecting the diverse identities and experiences within the LGBTQ+ community. It has also become a platform for addressing social issues beyond LGBTQ+ rights, such as racial justice, gender equality, and healthcare access.
“Throughout its history, Cincinnati Pride has played a significant role in shaping the LGBTQ+ landscape of the city, providing a platform for community members to unite, express their identities, and advocate for equality,” said Lewis. “By promoting visibility and understanding, Cincinnati Pride has contributed to creating a more inclusive and accepting environment for LGBTQ+ individuals in Cincinnati.”
Initial project support was provided by Procter & Gamble and the City of Cincinnati’s Career Pathways Initiative.
Matthew Dayler, an Ontario-born artist, is an Assistant Professor at the Art Academy of Cincinnati. With a diverse range of interests, his artwork draws inspiration from historical and contemporary imagery, exploring themes of identity alongside elements of pop culture, music and sports. His work can be found adorning the walls of corporate offices, schools, and public spaces across the USA, the Netherlands, and Australia. Based in Cincinnati, Dayler is the visionary behind Chroma Projects, a company specializing in the conceptualization and production of immersive murals and installations.