BBI Unveils Mural To Support Habitat for Humanity

After a year of deliberation with Habitat homeowners, Habitat for Humanity of Broward identified what home means to them and aimed to give it artistic life. Curated by Business of the Arts Broward and sponsored by BBI, the mural and light installation came to fruition. We celebrated our mural unveiling at the Habitat Restore on West Broward Boulevard on Wednesday, December 7, 2022.

The mural design showcased the power of homeownership to build an equitable community for all. The theme is based on Martin Luther King Jr.’s principle of a beloved community. The light installation that washes the entire building will change colors to celebrate important historical and cultural holidays.

"This is such an amazing project! The difference this one is going to make will be a multiplier effect in so many ways." said Nancy L. Robin, CEO and Executive Director at Habitat Broward.

The internationally recognized and Miami-based artist Elio Mercado brought the mural to life. He has produced vivid imagery in urban spaces worldwide under the artistic pseudonym of Evoca1. Mercado was born in the Dominican Republic but immigrated to Hollywood, Florida as a child. As an autodidact figurative painter, muralist and sculptor, he mastered his artistry from the compulsive study of the old master’s works and techniques. His works are a personal reflection of his life experiences, as well as from observation of human behaviors and social struggles.

Robert Taylor, BBI CEO said: "The mural depicts the role Habitat has played fighting for social justice. The artist interviewed many of the families who own a home through habitat to learn their stories and tell them in a very public area. The mural unveiling at the ReStore in Broward Boulevard– a high-traffic area, will do a great job telling the story of Habitat and the power of homeownership."

At BBI, giving back is at the core of our values and we are committed to transform our local communities by supporting Habitat Broward's mission to provide a safe and stable shelter for families in need. Through this partnership, BBI has sponsored 20 homes for local families, and recently invested in the BBI Village project, a new townhome community in Fort Lauderdale, FL that will allow another 20 families achieve their dream of homeownership.