Video Production: Jordan Somers
Created by artists Scott Méxcal and Natalia Sotelo, the mural the Gathering Tree of Life began not with paint, but with listening.
Scott and Natalia invited neighbors, food bank visitors, and staff to share what they love about their community through a participatory “Tendedero” (clothesline) project, inspired by Mexican artist Mónica Mayer. Community members shared thoughts—memories, images, and words—that helped shape the design of the mural. At the center of the mural is the Árbol de la Vida (Tree of Life), a symbol of deep roots, growth, and connection. This aligns beautifully with the Rainier Valley Foodbank's focus on abundance, food, and community. Ultimately, the mural reflects the food bank’s dual role: a place to receive nourishment and a gathering space that functions like the heart of a home.
Look closely and you’ll see familiar faces and stories woven in: a regular flute player who brings music to the guests waiting in line, a beloved volunteer remembered with a boombox, and a depiction of the tiny house community next door. During a community paint day, staff and guests picked up brushes themselves—turning the mural into a shared creation and deepening the sense of ownership and pride. Natalia and Scott found that deeper connection comes from “people putting their own mark on the wall.”
The artists were intentional about representing the Latino community and bringing vibrant color to a building that was once very plain. The result is joyful, welcoming, and alive—an outward expression of what happens inside this building everyday. As one community member shared, “the color really makes me feel happy.” This mural reminds us that the food bank is not just a place of service, but a beautiful shared space for community.
About the Artists
Artists Scott Méxcal and Natalia Sotelo are Seattle-based muralists and educators whose work is rooted in community and public art. Scott grew up in Albuquerque, New Mexico, immersed in Chicano street art and urban visual culture. Scott is a working artist, youth art mentor, and instructor at South Seattle College. Together, their work focuses on transforming shared spaces through art that reflects community voice. Natalia, born in Mexico City and based in Seattle, is a multidisciplinary visual artist working primarily in murals and oil painting, and she works with Urban ArtWorks to brighten up the city through public art.
Scott and Natalia invited neighbors, food bank visitors, and staff to share what they love about their community through a participatory “Tendedero” (clothesline) project, inspired by Mexican artist Mónica Mayer. Community members shared thoughts—memories, images, and words—that helped shape the design of the mural. At the center of the mural is the Árbol de la Vida (Tree of Life), a symbol of deep roots, growth, and connection. This aligns beautifully with the Rainier Valley Foodbank's focus on abundance, food, and community. Ultimately, the mural reflects the food bank’s dual role: a place to receive nourishment and a gathering space that functions like the heart of a home.
Look closely and you’ll see familiar faces and stories woven in: a regular flute player who brings music to the guests waiting in line, a beloved volunteer remembered with a boombox, and a depiction of the tiny house community next door. During a community paint day, staff and guests picked up brushes themselves—turning the mural into a shared creation and deepening the sense of ownership and pride. Natalia and Scott found that deeper connection comes from “people putting their own mark on the wall.”
The artists were intentional about representing the Latino community and bringing vibrant color to a building that was once very plain. The result is joyful, welcoming, and alive—an outward expression of what happens inside this building everyday. As one community member shared, “the color really makes me feel happy.” This mural reminds us that the food bank is not just a place of service, but a beautiful shared space for community.
About the Artists
Artists Scott Méxcal and Natalia Sotelo are Seattle-based muralists and educators whose work is rooted in community and public art. Scott grew up in Albuquerque, New Mexico, immersed in Chicano street art and urban visual culture. Scott is a working artist, youth art mentor, and instructor at South Seattle College. Together, their work focuses on transforming shared spaces through art that reflects community voice. Natalia, born in Mexico City and based in Seattle, is a multidisciplinary visual artist working primarily in murals and oil painting, and she works with Urban ArtWorks to brighten up the city through public art.
Press
South Seattle Emerald -- News Article on the Gathering Tree of Life
South Seattle Emerald -- News Article on the Gathering Tree of Life