Ithaca, NY – The halls of TST BOCES Smith School have been transformed with the vibrant colors of a new mural, bringing life and inspiration to the students and staff. This uplifting addition is the work of Sergio Arce, better known as Registered Artist, a talented urban pop artist from Miami, Florida, whose passion for community-focused art shines through in every brushstroke.
The mural is a vivid celebration of creativity and possibility. It features a student with special needs holding a paintbrush, releasing a burst of colors that showcase a lush green topography with a flowing river. Flowers of all colors bloom and butterflies take flight, creating a dynamic and lively scene. Monarch butterflies, as well as blue, orange, and yellow butterflies, flutter into a sea of purple, blue, yellow, and orange hues. The mural also includes green leaves, daisies, and a variety of flowers in the shades of purple, pink, and yellow that add to the vibrant landscape. The words "Create Your Future" are prominently displayed, inspiring all who pass by.
The mural project began when Sergio responded to a call from Ithaca Murals on behalf of TST BOCES. A spring climate survey conducted by the Teachers Association highlighted the need for positivity and a brighter atmosphere at Smith School. In response, the Teachers Association allocated $3,000 for Ithaca Murals to issue a request for proposals of an inspiring mural and to pay the winning artist for their time. Artists had to submit proposals, including a sketch of their mural idea, examples of their painting experience, and a project description. Out of the 33 artists who submitted proposals, the Smith School community voted, and Sergio's proposal emerged as the clear winner.
Sergio submitted two sketches, one featuring floral and fauna elements and another depicting a child drawing the possibilities of their future. After meeting with the TST BOCES team, Sergio decided to combine the two ideas."Through a lot of feedback and collaboration, we arrived at this final design," said Sergio.
For Sergio, creating art for a school setting is especially meaningful. "I liked the fact that it was going to be at a school," he explained. "I have a nonprofit in Miami called aWall, where we paint murals for low-income schools, hold workshops, and donate art supplies. Knowing this mural would be at a school dedicated to kids with special needs or disabilities made it even more special."
Sergio’s newest project, aWall, aims to bring art to children who may not have access to museums or galleries. "We operate during school hours so the kids can see the whole process, from beginning to end," Sergio shared. "This December, we completed 39 murals across two schools, including a K-8 school and an elementary school."
This is not Sergio's first contribution to the greater Ithaca community. His previous works in the area include murals at WellBeing Pediatrics & Adolescent Medicine, Henry St. John Building-No Mas Lagrimas, SouthSide Community Center, and a private commission for a motorhome. Each piece reflects his commitment to using art as a tool for community engagement and support.
Sergio's dedication to creating art that inspires and uplifts is evident in this newest mural completed on July 8, 2024 at TST BOCES. The vibrant artwork not only brightens Smith School's atmosphere but also serves as a powerful reminder for everyone who passes by to "Create Your Future." These words inspire those who see them by encouraging them to take an active role in shaping their own destinies. They remind individuals that they have the power to envision and work towards their dreams, fostering a sense of empowerment, motivation, and hope.
About the Artist:
Sergio Arce, better known as Registered Artist, is an urban pop artist based in Miami. Born in Managua, Nicaragua, he moved to the United States to escape political persecution. Though he never attended art school, Sergio's passion for learning and improving his techniques drives his artistic journey. Influenced by mid-century pop art and comic book art, his work includes murals, wheat pastes, stencils, decals, and stickers. Sergio has created murals in Miami, Florida, and around the world, including Mexico, Kansas City, New Orleans, and NYC. He has collaborated with major brands like K-Swiss, Wilson’s, and Walmart.
A lifelong lover of science, Sergio's pseudonym Registered Artist reflects his decade-long career as a registered nurse. He is passionate about giving back to the community through projects like Free Art Friday, a global initiative that he started in Miami. His latest project, aWall, focuses on bringing murals and art workshops to underserved communities and schools, promoting early exposure to the arts and the power of creation.
For more information about Sergio Arce follow him on Facebook and Instagram:
Facebook: Registered Artist
Instagram: @registered_artist
For more information about Sergio’s work at aWall, follow him on Facebook and Instagram:
Facebook: aWall Mural Projects
Instagram: @awallmuralprojects