“The Journey of Life” mural officially unveiled at Richmond Terrace

A ribbon cutting was held last Friday (Sept. 18) at Richmond Terrace Long-Term Care Home for the new mural “The Journey of Life” that is in a courtyard of the home.

A new mural on an outer wall of Richmond Terrace Long-Term Care Home is now available for viewing and for some reflection.

“The Journey of Life” is the title of the mural near an outdoor courtyard on the Richmond St. side of the building with the mural actually facing Sandwich St. S. The mural is the latest work of Amherstburg artist Dylan White.

Melissa Cranston, director of programs and support services at Richmond Terrace, said the Sept. 18 ceremony was not just to celebrate a beautiful piece of art but the meaning behind it as well.

The mural represents the passage of time between people of all generations, she indicated, and that “we all leave something behind.”

Cranston thanked the community, families, staff and residents of Richmond Terrace. She reserved special thanks for White, “for taking a vision and turning it into something we can all enjoy and admire.”

The late Shirley Gubica, who had a family member at Richmond Terrace, was the sponsor of the mural and will have a plaque go up near it to recognize her donation.

“Thank you for everyone who helped bring this vision to life,” said Cranston.

Mayor Michael Prue also remarked on how the mural reflects on how all stages of life have value and that experiences get passed down through the generations.

“To Dylan, your artwork is phenomenal,” Prue told White. “I see it all over town.”

Prue said the mural is also a reflection of what a caring and supportive community Richmond Terrace is as well as the entire community of Amherstburg. 

Laura Scott, director of operations with Omni Quality Living, said “for me, this is way more personal.” 

“Richmond Terrace is actually the place where I started my nursing career,” said Scott. 

Scott pointed out the meaning of the mural to her and it was that knowledge spreads throughout all of society regardless of age.

“To me, the mural represents the passage of wisdom,” she said.

Scott added she was honoured to represent Omni Quality Living and said long-term care isn’t just a place that people go when they near the end of their journey through life as they help form new relationships.

White said he was pleased to be the one chosen to create the mural, which measures 17-feet wide and 35-feet tall.

“It’s always an honour to create art that becomes part of the community,” said White.

White hopes it makes people stop, think and connect with the piece.

“The Journey of Life” mural officially unveiled at Richmond Terrace

By Ron Giofu