"Springfield Sanctuary," by Ryan Murray 2019

Stencils, like other forms of street art, demand attention and tackle challenging subjects. In my work, I explore abandoned buildings, streets, and the underrepresentation of mental health in African-American communities. I aim to spark important conversations and uncover hidden beauty. However, for this Union Station mural, I focused on Springfield's role in the Underground Railroad. It's crucial to preserve the city's history amidst ongoing urban development. Springfield historically provided refuge and actively resisted the Fugitive Slave Act. Sadly, much of this history has been destroyed or neglected. By highlighting forgotten figures like Primus Mason and questioning the commemoration of William Pynchon, we aim to shed light on our shared past and guide our future." - Ryan Murray

Ryan is an artist and muralist based in Springfield and a graduate of the Community Mural Institute. He earned his Bachelor of Fine Arts from Carnegie Mellon University in 2014 and has since been dedicated to addressing the stigma surrounding mental health issues in the Black community through his artwork. Ryan's impactful contributions have been recognized, as he is a recipient of grants from the Berkshire Taconic Community Foundation and Mass Cultural Council, further supporting his important work.

IG: @rywandojones.

This mural is located in Union Station.