Gilbane Development Company proudly unveils "A Breath of Fresh Air," a 6,000-square-foot mural by celebrated artist MISS CHELOVE, adorning the parking garage of Sovren, its new mixed-use, mixed-income apartment community at The Riverfront at West Hyattsville Metro. This dynamic work of public art not only marks the largest mural in Hyattsville but also serves as a visual landmark for the community, blending art, history, and nature in a celebration of the city's rich past and promising future.
HYATTSVILLE, Md., Jan. 13, 2025 /PRNewswire-PRWeb/ -- Gilbane Development Company proudly unveils "A Breath of Fresh Air," a 6,000-square-foot mural by celebrated artist MISS CHELOVE, adorning the parking garage of Sovren, its new mixed-use, mixed-income apartment community at The Riverfront at West Hyattsville Metro. This dynamic work of public art not only marks the largest mural in Hyattsville but also serves as a visual landmark for the community, blending art, history, and nature in a celebration of the city's rich past and promising future. Facing the WMATA Green Line, the mural greets thousands of commuters, pedestrians, and cyclists daily, making it a key visual element in this burgeoning neighborhood.
The mural production spanned six weeks, used 265 gallons of paint and primer, and was performed by MISS CHELOVE and three core assistants, Julian Peterson, MIZTA, and APOXY, with additional assistance by Christine Anderson and Michelle Chen.
MISS CHELOVE, a Hyattsville native, has deep personal ties to the area. Raised in the city, her family lived in its oldest house for four decades. Her childhood memories include watching double-feature films at a drive-in theater, where the West Hyattsville Metro Station and Sovren now stand. For the artist, this project represents a homecoming and an opportunity to give back to a city that shaped her.
"Having created many murals across the region, I'm honored to contribute a major piece of public art to my hometown," shared MISS CHELOVE. "This mural reflects Hyattsville's evolution while embracing its roots. I hope it inspires and uplifts residents and visitors for generations."
The Art and Its Inspiration
The mural, titled A Breath of Fresh Air, features vibrant imagery that draws from local history, nature, and the concept of sovereignty—mirroring the meaning behind Sovren's name. Central themes include:
History Reimagined: The mural nods to a historic moment when Queen Elizabeth II and Prince Philip visited a nearby grocery store in 1957. A striking portrait of a woman gazing toward this site is surrounded by English roses and gold accents, symbolizing regality with a fresh, modern twist.
Nature and Wellness: The mural's lush botanicals, rolling clouds, and hidden honeybee highlights the area's natural beauty, and the interconnectedness of humans and ecosystems come through as a secondary message.
Movement and Connection: A sweeping blue streak symbolizes freedom, energy, and the vibrancy of the nearby WMATA Green Line, pedestrian pathways, and trails.
"The mural is designed to feel like a true breath of fresh air," said MISS CHELOVE. "It's a reminder of our shared connection to nature and the importance of nurturing our local environment and community."
Community Impact
Art plays a pivotal role in Hyattsville, fostering a strong sense of identity and community pride. The city has a rich tradition of public art that reflects its diverse culture and history, making it a vibrant hub for artists and art enthusiasts alike. Sovren's location at The Riverfront at West Hyattsville is uniquely tied to nature, positioned near the junction of Sligo Creek and the Northwest Branch of the Anacostia River. The mural faces the WMATA Green Line, greeting thousands of commuters, pedestrians, and cyclists daily. It will serve as a key visual element in this burgeoning neighborhood, where Gilbane's development efforts are fostering a vibrant, connected community.
"This mural reflects our commitment to creating dynamic communities that celebrate local history, foster connections, and embrace the arts," said Robert V. Gilbane Jr., Senior Vice President, Gilbane Development Company. "MISS CHELOVE's vision perfectly complements Sovren's identity as a cornerstone of the West Hyattsville Riverfront."
About Gilbane Development Company
Gilbane Development Company is the real estate development, financing, and ownership arm of Gilbane, Inc., a 154-year-old family-owned company. With over $8.5 billion in development and more than 25,000 units of housing completed/underway, Gilbane Development Company's projects incorporate every aspect of real estate including: multifamily housing (market rate apartments, student housing, and affordable housing); mixed-used developments; healthcare facilities; K-12 schools; government facilities; and many types of facilities delivered through public-private partnerships. To learn more, visit http://www.gilbaneco.com.
About MISS CHELOVE
MISS CHELOVE, also known as Cita Sadeli, is an independent art director, muralist, designer, and illustrator. Her vibrant murals can be found throughout the D.C. metro area and internationally. Combining local and biographical storytelling with the tools and methods of graffiti and street art, MISS CHELOVE explores themes including women's empowerment and the environment, weaving iconic images from the past and present into works that reflect the community.
About Sovren
Sovren in Hyattsville, MD, is a five-story, 293-unit community offering modern living with 147 affordable units at 80% AMI, ground-floor retail, and an art-wrapped garage with WMATA connectivity. Sovren is a complement to GDC's broader The Riverfront at West Hyattsville project and developed in partnership with Amazon and Prince George's County DHCD, it features premium amenities, smart-home tech, and access to the National Capital Hike & Bike Trail. Sovren exemplifies high-quality, sustainable urban living. Learn more about Sovren by visiting livesovren.com
Media Contact
Nicole Carreiro, Gilbane Development Company, 401.456.5830, [email protected], gilbaneco.com
SOURCE Gilbane Development Company
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