Artists come together to honor James Scurlock and the Black Lives Matter movement.

Words and Photos by Lauren Vana

Several murals have gone about around Omaha to support the Black Lives Matter movement and in honor of James Scurlock, who was tragically murdered downtown during a protest on May 30.

A Banksy-inspired mural has been added on Cuming Street near Saddle Creek Road by local artist, Jeremiah Neal. Against a black building, a young man is depicted gearing up to throw a bouquet of flowers. Directly around the corner there is an illustration of an old man next to the words “CHANGE GONNA COME” in red lettering.

On the corner of 16th & Farnam Street local artists have been using the boarded-up windows of Culprit Café and Table Grace Café as public canvases, illustrating messages of justice, freedom, and unity.

One of these murals, painted by the community on June 4, depicts a portrait of Scurlock surrounded by flowers, his name repeated in the background. The piece was inspired by an illustration by Kat Morrow. Julia Mason led the project with help from Edgar Vazquez, a local tattoo artist who is close with Scurlock’s family, and several volunteers.

Mason wanted to offer the Omaha community an opportunity to participate as a way to pay their condolences to the Scurlock family and connect with others.

“Community art is a great way to not only give something beautiful and enjoyable back to the community, but it is also a great way to foster new relationships,” Mason said. “Art also promotes communication on deeper issues.”

Mason allowed people to sign up for 15-minute shifts to paint James Scurlock’s name in the background. Throughout the day a diverse group of volunteers of all races contributed. 

“I loved that it involved such a diverse group and that we were able to come together, connect, and make art as a community,” Mason said. 

Positivity and connection surrounded the mural as volunteers and friends painted, danced, and took photos. Drivers honked in support as they drove by. A local couple brought flowers from their garden. Later in the day, Scurlock’s aunt and cousin stopped by and thanked the artists.

Mason hopes that this mural shows support for the Scurlock family, helps build bridges in the community, and contributes to the larger movement. She hopes other artists set out to do the same.

“Everyone can use their talents to do something. It’s just a matter of assessing your talents or strengths and being creative with how you give back.”

Contributors

Writer and Photographer:
Lauren Vana is a writer, photographer, and designer based in Omaha, NE.