Courtney Wagner, a fourth-year Fine Arts student at Mount Allison, has created a mural that reflects her belief in the power of art to bring people together and create meaningful change in the community.  

Wagner saw the mural project as an opportunity to support a cause she cares about.  

“I felt extremely honoured to have been offered this amazing experience," she says. “This project aligns with my values and supports a wonderful organization. It was also my first-ever mural and I knew the experience would be valuable for future projects.”  

The mural was inspired by the idea of a picnic to represent sharing and community. The mural shows hands passing colorful fruits and vegetables to symbolize generosity and abundance. The vibrant colours and lively design, inspired by an overflowing cornucopia, reflect The Pantry’s mission of providing support and nourishment. 

Wagner started by sketching several drafts on her tablet before finalizing the design. After preparing the wall with a black base coat, she used a projector to transfer her sketch onto the surface. However, she had to switch to freehand drawing due to the narrow space.  

“When I started applying the colours, I felt the mural coming together,” she says.  

The project took more than 50 hours. Working around space's limitations required careful attention to detail and creative problem-solving. Despite these challenges, Wagner's determination paid off.  

“This was my first mural, and I learned so much throughout the process," she says. “I wouldn't change anything about it. My goal was to make the space more colourful and welcoming.” 

She hopes her mural will enhance the food Pantry's atmosphere and encourage more people to visit, use the services, or consider donating. Wagner believes that art in public spaces can do more than just make a place look beautiful. 

“Art can also make people more aware and motivate them to take action,” she says. 

Wagner also hopes her mural will help reduce the shame that is sometimes associated with using food support services and encourage others to support The Pantry's mission. 

 “Combining my love for art with helping the community is important to me,” she says.  

Wagner advises students hoping to make an impact with their talents to make connections and display their work. She encourages having a website or social media platform to display their art and actively participating in local projects. "Don't hesitate to offer your services, it never hurts to ask around!" she says. 

“We’re thrilled with Courtney’s mural” says Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Anti-Racism (DEIAR) Student Advisor Cassie Rodriguez. “Courtney did an incredible job making the space come to life with her mural. The Pantry is a space where we want everyone in need to feel welcomed, without fear of judgment or stigma. Not only does her art represent the generosity and sense of community that The Pantry aims to foster, but it also makes the space itself feel more positive and vibrant. We are so honoured to have Courtney's artwork within The Pantry and we can't wait for the Mount Allison community to see it!"  

The Pantry is set to open on October 8 on the second floor of the Wallace McCain Student Centre, Room 282. The Pantry is open to the entire Mount Allison community Monday-Friday from 8:30 a.m.– 4:30 p.m. and will be staffed with volunteers to assist those who are accessing the space. If you are interested in volunteering with The Pantry, please email Cassie Rodriguez at crodriguez@mta.ca 

For Wagner, the mural project is just the beginning of her exploration into public art.  

“This project opened my eyes to the world of mural painting, and I loved it," she says. “Looking ahead, she is excited to take on similar projects and continue using her art to engage with the community.” 

To learn more about The Pantry and to keep updated, follow The Pantry on Instagram @thepantry_mta