Sovren West Hyattsville
Update
01/15/25
MISS CHELOVE Creates Hyattsville's Largest Mural at Gilbane Development Company's Sovren Community
Gilbane Development Company proudly unveils "A Breath of Fresh Air," a 6,000-square-foot mural by celebrated artist MISS CHELOVE, adorning the parking garage of Sovren, its new mixed-use, mixed-income apartment community at The Riverfront at West Hyattsville Metro. This dynamic work of public art not only marks the largest mural in Hyattsville but also serves as a visual landmark for the community, blending art, history, and nature in a celebration of the city's rich past and promising future. Facing the WMATA Green Line, the mural greets thousands of commuters, pedestrians, and cyclists daily, making it a key visual element in this burgeoning neighborhood.
The mural production spanned six weeks, used 265 gallons of paint and primer, and was performed by MISS CHELOVE and three core assistants, Julian Peterson, MIZTA, and APOXY, with additional assistance by Christine Anderson and Michelle Chen.
MISS CHELOVE, a Hyattsville native, has deep personal ties to the area. Raised in the city, her family lived in its oldest house for four decades. Her childhood memories include watching double-feature films at a drive-in theater, where the West Hyattsville Metro Station and Sovren now stand. For the artist, this project represents a homecoming and an opportunity to give back to a city that shaped her.
"Having created many murals across the region, I'm honored to contribute a major piece of public art to my hometown," shared MISS CHELOVE. "This mural reflects Hyattsville's evolution while embracing its roots. I hope it inspires and uplifts residents and visitors for generations."
The Art and Its Inspiration
The mural, titled A Breath of Fresh Air, features vibrant imagery that draws from local history, nature, and the concept of sovereignty—mirroring the meaning behind Sovren's name. Central themes include:
History Reimagined: The mural nods to a historic moment when Queen Elizabeth II and Prince Philip visited a nearby grocery store in 1957. A striking portrait of a woman gazing toward this site is surrounded by English roses and gold accents, symbolizing regality with a fresh, modern twist.
Nature and Wellness: The mural's lush botanicals, rolling clouds, and hidden honeybee highlights the area's natural beauty, and the interconnectedness of humans and ecosystems come through as a secondary message.
Movement and Connection: A sweeping blue streak symbolizes freedom, energy, and the vibrancy of the nearby WMATA Green Line, pedestrian pathways, and trails.
"The mural is designed to feel like a true breath of fresh air," said MISS CHELOVE. "It's a reminder of our shared connection to nature and the importance of nurturing our local environment and community."
Community Impact
Art plays a pivotal role in Hyattsville, fostering a strong sense of identity and community pride. The city has a rich tradition of public art that reflects its diverse culture and history, making it a vibrant hub for artists and art enthusiasts alike. Sovren's location at The Riverfront at West Hyattsville is uniquely tied to nature, positioned near the junction of Sligo Creek and the Northwest Branch of the Anacostia River. The mural faces the WMATA Green Line, greeting thousands of commuters, pedestrians, and cyclists daily. It will serve as a key visual element in this burgeoning neighborhood, where Gilbane's development efforts are fostering a vibrant, connected community.
"This mural reflects our commitment to creating dynamic communities that celebrate local history, foster connections, and embrace the arts," said Robert V. Gilbane Jr., Senior Vice President, Gilbane Development Company. "MISS CHELOVE's vision perfectly complements Sovren's identity as a cornerstone of the West Hyattsville Riverfront."