Digital Ready
Planting a Seed
2025 - Boston, MA - 325 sq ft
Problem
Digital Ready is a Boston based STEM education and social justice nonprofit. When they acquired their first permanent space, they knew they needed something to make it their own and display who they are to the broader community, particularly because the space had previously been a brewery and featured a large beer mural- not the best for an educational space for high school students!
Solution
I partnered with Digital Ready to design and install a mural representative of their mission. The mural depicts an illustrated version of a (theoretically) functional Rube Goldberg machine which stretches across the wall and culminates with the planting of a single seed. This piece illustrates several engineering and physics concepts in a fun and engaging way, which perfectly encapsulates Digital Ready's brand identity.
The Process
Consultation and Concept
We started with a brainstorming discussion to understand the client’s vision and goals. When we settled on the Rube Goldberg machine, we knew it was the perfect way to demonstrate the whimsy and fun that Digital Ready brings to the world of STEM education.
Design Refinement
Working closely with the Digital Ready’s instructors, executive team, and students, we refined the design to ensure the mural aligned perfectly with their vision and fit with their plans for the rest of the space. We went through a few revisions in order to find a sweet spot that felt whimsical without coming off childish or patronizing to the teenage students that inhabit the space. On the left are a few of the rejected designs that helped us get to the perfect fit.
The Installation
Installation for this highly detailed project was completed over the course of 10 days, including 2 night paints. It was a solo installation painted entirely by me. I was lucky to get a stretch of rain free days in April (a rare blessing in Boston!), however the wind presented consistent challenges, with gusts exceeding 33mph at their height. This made lift operation and the use of a ladder dangerous at certain times of day, so I timed my install schedule each day to coordinate with the wind forecast. The installation overall went very smoothly.
Community Impact
My favorite part of this project was the conversations I got to have with the local community! As I painted on the sidewalk of a busy street, people would stop to chat with me frequently. Word hadn't gotten around the community yet about who was now inhabiting the space, so most stopped to ask me if I could tell them more about Digital Ready! My favorite interaction wasn't direct- I was up on the lift, but overheard a father explaining the concept of a Rube Goldberg machine to his excited daughter- I like to think that that girl will go on to become an accomplished engineer!
Project Success
Increased Foot Traffic
There has been a noticeable uptick in the number of guests visiting Digital Ready’s collaborative educational space and inquiring about their services, which has lead to an increase in student applications and community awareness.
Partner Impressions
Digital Ready works closely with many industry partners in tech fields throughout Boston. The mural makes a memorable impression on visiting partners and allow for stimulating conversations which display the intricate care and cultural consciousness put into Digital Ready’s programming.