“Rooted Together”

Denver Urban Gardens - 2023

Created for Denver Urban Gardens’ headquarters, this mural celebrates the relationships between people, soil, plants, food, and the wider urban ecosystem.

The composition moves from the life beneath the soil - roots, fungi, microorganisms, worms, stones, and decomposing organic matter - into the cultivated world above, where gardeners, vegetables, fruit trees, pollinators, and community all become part of one interconnected system. The imagery reflects Denver Urban Gardens’ mission of connecting people with the earth, each other, and the food they eat.

Community participation was built into the painting process. Local Boys & Girls Club youth helped paint accessible portions of the mural at ground level, giving young participants a hands-on role in creating the finished artwork.

The mural transformed a large garage door at DUG’s headquarters into a visual celebration of urban agriculture, ecological connection, and community stewardship.