Commissioned by JEWELSMITH, MCK Creative and Sign Scientist collaborated to create a large scale art installation on this property located at 2200 W Main St Ste A-170, Durham, NC 27705 in the Erwin Square Plaza. Celebrating the 50 year anniversary of Jewelsmith, MCK Created a mural spanning the exterior facade of Jewelsmith and included a hand painted and vinyl portion of artwork to create a seamless transition across the storefront.

During the design process, I created a design that would unify the exposed concrete and large glass windows. After creating the vector artwork and having the clients approval, I contracted Sign Scientist to install the vinyl panels on each window. The vinyl is made of a perforated material that allows for customers inside the store to see through while also providing shade/coverage to the exterior. I then went through and hand painted the remainder of the design over the concrete and the pillars so that it would connect seamlessly. I did this by color matching the spray paint colors to the design so that when I printed the vinyl it would match with the real spray paint used for the rest of the wall.

The mural itself is inspired by and tells the story of Jewelsmith- Beginning with their roots. Founded by Linda Mcgill, Jewelsmith prides itself on its artistry and attention to detail (much like me!) and specializes in custom, unique hand crafted jewelry pieces as well as revamping older family jewelry heirlooms etc. Each window panel represents a single chapter in the Jewelsmith story and reflects the creative process behind each piece.

The primary panel uses real sketches taken from Linda’s sketchbook, re drawn with her signature copied over. The second panel shows the crafting of raw materials, the 3rd the sourcing of gems, the 4th with the construction of the piece and the 5th showing the final product (The actual piece created by Linda honoring and paying homage to Durham, NC). Surrounding the panels I drew bold floral designs that pay homage to my art inspirations and serve as bold, vibrant flowing design that highly contrasts with the bare exteriors of the remaining areas on the priority. Not only is it bold and eye catching like a throw up, but it grabs your attention immediately from the road and serves as the perfect reminder of the community staple that makes Jewelsmith what it is.

I had an amazing time working with Kristine and her team and I’m proud to call her a friend and client.

This mural was painted free hand using Montana 94 and Loop spray paint. The vinyl is printed on perforated high quality vinyl wrap provided by Sign Scientist.