When I was invited to participate in The Healing Uvalde Mural Project, I had only been painting portraits for ten months. I was prepared to support the project in any way I could and never expected to be selected for one of the tribute murals. Then I received a call from Monica Maldonado asking if I would create a mural honoring Jayce Carmelo Luevanos.

The opportunity was both humbling and intimidating. I wanted to create something that truly honored Jayce and reflected the love his family and community continue to hold for him. Throughout the design process, I worked closely with his family to ensure they felt connected to the mural and represented in its vision.

When I arrived in Uvalde, Jayce's family welcomed me with open arms. Their kindness, support, and trust made a lasting impact on me. As I painted, my goal was to create a space where family, friends, and community members could feel close to Jayce, remember his spirit, and find moments of healing and connection.

This mural remains one of the most meaningful projects of my career. Jayce and his family will always hold a special place in my heart.

Jayce Luevanos 19’ x 20’ | Tribute Mural, Mixed Media | Uvalde, Texas- In Collaboration with Mas Cultura, Collectors of Chicano/Latinx Art & Allies, and Abel Ortiz