Sabrina Smith

Background

A new neighborhood library was scheduled to open early 2024. Dedicated to Houston native and NASA astronaut, Dr. Shannon Walker, the library boasts futuristic architecture and a space-themed teen area. There is also a children’s play area, ample computer desks and seating, a TechLink makerspace, and adult area.

An empty wall was the first thing one would see when entering the library so I was asked to create a mural depicting the library’s namesake, Dr. Shannon Walker. The original architecture plans had included an ISS-inspired seating area but due to budget constraints, it could not be implemented. I used the original plans as a springboard to create a mural that would evoke a similar feeling of being in space.

Solution & Impact

I began by deciding which ideas from the architect could make it into the final design. The original plan featured a circular booth with the image of Dr. Walker sitting inside the International Space Station cupola, a round window where images and videos are taken. There were also a portrait and models of NASA items that Dr. Walker had been in or used.

Using a similar concept from the original design, I first attempted to create a 3-d scene that would look like you were inside the ISS using the window and models. Unfortunately, we were not able to source accurate 3-d model renderings that related to Dr. Walker’s time as an astronaut. Making the wall look like it was an area on the Space Station was also not convincing because the space station has long skinny hallways but the wall is wide. The illusion just wasn’t holding up.

Rough Draft

It was then that I decided to create a realistic window surrounded by a semi-realistic gallery scene. The wall needed to transition into the teen area and TechLink area seamlessly so the left side needed to be black fading to white on the right side. Because of these constraints I decided to use an abstract futuristic background and design elements that would frame each piece of the gallery. I also decided to use NASA blue as the main accent color to contrast the black as well as remind viewers of the NASA affiliation.

After a few more revisions, the gallery stands were changed to framed images and text that looked more futuristic. I then sourced real images of the ISS, the Soyuz Spacecraft, the SpaceX Dragon, and Dr. Walker’s various flight patches to use in the gallery wall. Her portrait was included on the other side of the cupola window and features a short summary of her life.

The final design was approved by Dr. Walker and her NASA publicist so we were then able to get a quote and install the mural in June 2024 right before the Library’s Opening.