For my mural I chose to use the empty side of Ellicottville Brew Company. I considered a few different locations but decided on this once since it's so large and tall, and many people see it regularly. The wall is extremely bland and boring, just like Fredonia. Many people from Fredonia have Italian heritage, so I chose to make the wall look as if it was taken right out of an Italian street. I think it could give Fredonia more of an identity. Italian buildings often have bright colors, use a diverse palette of colors, have lots of flowers, and have things like statues and other art built right into them. From my experience in Italy, I chose to use a bright yellow to really liven the area. It's eye catching and would definitely make people stop and look. The green shutters and door and all the flowers make huge contrast between the mural and the rest of the building. People in and out of Fredonia would start talking about the mural which would attract more people, which I think Fredonia needs. I think it could also inspire other businesses to be more interested in murals as well. Fredonia just gets so depressing sometimes, it could be nice to have a bright pop of energy, especially during the winter. I want the viewer to feel like they just turned down an Italian street, and to feel a bit more positive. I think Fredonia needs more personality and energy, and this mural would accomplish that.

While taking both sets of pictures, I had to look closer at my surroundings and actively look for things that would make interesting photos. Most of this was done at my house, so I did a lot of looking around inside and outside and got a better appreciation for the place I live in since I got so many nice pictures from it. The first set of pictures was a lot easier since there was no categories for them, and I just made up my own theme for the pictures. It was easier to make them feel like they all belonged together. The second set of pictures was more difficult because of how specific each one is, especially the name one, which I feel like didn't turn out that great. The first set of pictures was more enjoyable because of being able to make my own theme for them. The second set of pictures did make me think harder and be more analytical about my surroundings which was interesting but not quite as enjoyable. My favorite image is in the first set of photos of the side of my barn with the overgrown garden below it. I really like the texture of the worn out wood and how there are so many variations in shades of blue. I also really like the picture I took of my mom through the stained glass heart because that was pretty creative and I don't feel like I'm a very creative person in general.