#wiltoniswhereyoubelong Traveling Community Mural: A Visual Journey of Belonging through the Town of Wilton
Wilton Pride, in partnership with Wilton Library and the Wilton Youth Council’s Coalition for Youth, is thrilled to announce the town’s first-ever traveling mural.
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, the community was invited to roll up their sleeves, pick up a paintbrush, and become part of the vision in this interactive abstract art.
Kaspr explains, “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.”
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.
"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" said Heidi Tsapelas, Board Member, Wilton Pride. "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. Kaspar’s abstract travelling 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, Board Member, Wilton Pride and Senior Minister of the Wilton Congregational Church.
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, among others. The mural’s schedule will be announced in the coming weeks via Wilton Pride and Wilton Library’s respective social media channels. The community is encouraged to follow these updates and discover where this powerful symbol of belonging will appear next. If you would like to have the mural at your property, please contact info@wiltonpride.org
“Wilton Library has always been a hub for community connection,” added Caroline Mandler, the Library’s Executive Director. “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 mural’s journey across Wilton will serve as a continuous invitation for all to reflect on their own sense of belonging and to actively participate in building a more inclusive community. Its presence will be a consistent reminder #wiltoniswhereyoubelong; just as you are.
“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,” said Chandra Ring, Executive Director of Wilton Youth Council. “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.