A Celebration of Black Business Owners
In September 2024, New York Life hosted an inspiring event for Black business owners at the Marriott Sugarland in Houston, Texas. To make the gathering truly special, they partnered with a Houston Live Muralist through Graffiti Arts. Together, they created an interactive experience that captured the voices and aspirations of the community.
Turning Stories into a Live Mural
First, New York Life asked attendees to reflect on the theme: “What is the past, present, or future of your Black business?” Guests shared their answers on colorful notes. Next, the Houston Live Muralist transformed these ideas into a dynamic 8’x12′ doodle wall. This mural told a collective story of hope and determination.
An Interactive and Memorable Experience
This live mural did more than decorate the space; it created an immersive atmosphere. Meanwhile, guests watched as their thoughts became part of vibrant artwork. This process sparked conversations and built a shared sense of community. Furthermore, the interactive element kept attendees engaged throughout the event. To preserve the moment, the team captured the entire live art process via timelapse video. After the event, they produced postcards featuring the final mural. These postcards served as memorable keepsakes for the guests.
Delivering a Lasting Impact
Despite a tight turnaround and premium requests, the team delivered a flawless experience. New York Life loved the final piece so much that they kept the 8’x12′ mural as a permanent installation. As a result, this artwork now serves as a lasting symbol of community and creativity.
Conclusion
This event showed how live art can elevate an experience and create lasting memories. By turning community stories into vibrant visuals, the Houston Live Muralist, Graffiti Arts, and The Strategic Agency created a day that celebrated the dreams and stories of Black business owners for New York Life.
