This new addition to Carmel’s growing inventory of public art began to take shape in June thanks to a collaboration between current and former local high school students who approached the City and brought in the Indianapolis-based artist Israel Solomon. The large-scale mural features Black heroes and heroines who hail from or have had an impact in the state of Indiana.

The project was the collaborative efforts of the Carmel Redevelopment Commission, Carmel Midtown Community Development Corporation, Carmel Clay Parks & Recreation and building owner Brad Subrin. The students who brought the project to the City included Lily McAndrews, Izza Khurram, Adell Urtel along with Cami Carillo, Dariush Khurram, who formed the group Be the Change Indy to raise awareness about social justice issues both globally and locally.

Solomon, a visual artist and art educator spends his time impacting the community, including working with the Children’s Museum of Indianapolis. In 2018, Solomon produced a solo exhibition at the Indianapolis Arts Garden, which highlighted his love of vibrant color and geometric shapes.