As it marks its 25th anniversary, the Arts Council of the Valley (ACV) is unveiling an inspiring international art project in downtown Harrisonburg. The centerpiece? A mural called Unity in Diversity that brings together local creativity and global artistic vision.
Led by artist David Draime, the project will feature a design created by artists thousands of miles away, in countries where free expression is heavily restricted. Draime, who runs Draime Fine Art Studio School, has spent years connecting with San Diego artist Neda Towfiq to teach art classes online to young people in Iran—an effort that’s become especially meaningful given the barriers these students face.
These students belong to Iran’s Bahá’í community, the country’s largest non-Muslim religious minority, which has long been denied access to higher education. Simply trying to study art—or any subject—can be dangerous, with punishments ranging from book confiscation to imprisonment.
When Bahá’í educators in Iran approached Draime in August 2024 to help these young artists learn how to design murals, it was clear that their work could never appear on Iranian walls. That reality sparked a powerful idea:
“Why not bring their vision here?” Draime reflected. “Even if they can’t share their art at home, we can give it a voice in Harrisonburg.”
He proposed the concept to ACV last summer, just as the organization was gearing up for its anniversary celebration.
The mural will be painted on the south wall of 34 S. Main St., home to the Taj of India restaurant, and will incorporate bright colors and a vibrant design that captures the spirit of global connection and resilience.
Funding comes from a mix of sources, including a grant from The Community Foundation of Harrisonburg and Rockingham County’s Earlynn J. Miller Fund for the Arts, as well as private donors worldwide.
For more details, visit valleyarts.org/public-art-unity-in-diversity-mural.
SOURCE: Rocktown Now