Reflections through Flora Mural

Reflections through Flora is a collaboration between artist Ernesto Maranje, artist and fabricator Mike Zeak, and horticulturalist, Suzanne Shuffitt.

The concept for the mural is a unique blend of street art, incorporating horticulture into the design. There are only a few like it in the world, and the only one in Marion County. The design incorporates Florida flora and fauna into a cohesive concept. The focal point of the mural is a Florida black bear accompanied by two Roseate spoonbills. The background ties in native plants, blue sky and water. The mural makes use of attached, custom-fabricated plant trellises that will house carefully curated plants and plant material. The plantings will be incorporated into the design to create a semi-three-dimensional look.

Maranje’s work is a purposeful reminder of the relationship all living creatures share with each other. Colorful, whimsical and hinting at many interpretations and possibilities, his art is one of a kind.