JAYCE LUEVANOS

I had only been studying portraits for about 10 months when I got the call. In those 10 months I’ve tried to learn as much as possible and have thrown myself into uncomfortable situations as an artist. After all, that’s the only place where real growth happens. I learned about The Healing Uvalde Mural Project through Monica Maldonado. I had no expectation of being selected for one of the tribute murals and was ready to support the project in any way that I could. The first round of murals honoring the victims had already begun when I received an unexpected call from Monica. Sweet baby Jayce was inadvertently left off the list which meant he had not been assigned an artist. Monica asked if I was willing and able to do Jayce’s mural. My heart immediately sank and the self doubt kicked in. I couldn’t say no to such a important, meaningful project, but I wondered if I was even capable. Would I do justice to this sweet baby boy and be able to capture his essence in my work? Before having another moment to even think about it, I said yes. 

The month leading up to my arrival in Uvalde was nerve racking. It was important to me that his family be part of the process and felt included in the mural. I reached out and asked to be connected directly with the family. We had a few phone calls and began conceptualizing the design. 

When the time came, I was so nervous to meet Jayce’s family but they greeted me with open arms and with no hesitation treated me as one of their own. 

The outpouring support from Jayce’s family and the entire community was so humbling and unlike anything I have ever experienced. Jayce’s family would come hang out with me every evening and sometimes into the early hours of the morning as I poured my heart and soul into his mural. I wanted to create a space that Jayce’s friends, family and even strangers could come to spend time with him, see him, talk to him, and feel his presence. A place for healing. I wanted his family to be able to come see that sweet sparkle in his eye whenever they needed to. I hope that this tribute brings a smile to his parents and siblings every time they see it. I gave it everything I had and would do it again in a heartbeat. 

Jayce, you are loved and missed so dearly. You and your family hold a special place in my heart, now and forever.