Baltimore Love Project founder paints Pulse Community with LOVE

Artist Michael Owen says the unique design will honor victims of Orlando nightclub shooting.

Last week, Baltimore artist and founder of the Baltimore LOVE Project, Michael Owen, teamed up with the Einstein Noah Restaurant Group and the OnePulse Foundation to install one of his LOVE murals at the Einstein Bagels location across the street from Pulse Orlando.

Mr. Owen custom-designed the LOVE mural featuring his iconic LOVE hands adorned with forty-nine orange blossoms, Florida’s state flower. Mr. Owen’s hope is that this permanent monument will honor those lost and bring love to those in need.

“I started painting the word LOVE on walls in 2008 to see if it would hold up, if the reminder would inspire change in others and myself,” said Michael Owen. “Dozens of LOVE murals later, the image and project have become much larger than an experiment, uniting disparate neighborhoods and people.”

“Our community continues to receive support from around the country and the Baltimore LOVE Project is another example that love can defeat hate,” said Orlando Mayor Buddy Dyer. “Art has played a major role in the healing process and we’re thankful that artists like Michael are generously donating their skills and time to Orlando.”

“I see Michael’s work every day in Baltimore and it always gives me hope and a sense of peace,” said Ron Legler, co-founder of Pulse and President of the Hippodrome Theatre at the France-Merrick Performing Arts Center in Baltimore. “It’s been harder than ever to be away from Orlando after the Pulse tragedy, but I personally know how healing and unifying Michael’s work can be and I’m excited for my home of Orlando to be able to experience that.”

While Mr. Owen is donating his time and talent for this special project, The Baltimore LOVE Project is collecting donations to cover additional expenses. To donate to this project, click here.