Union Market in Washington, D.C. is home to the "Never Give Up" mural, created by internationally renowned street artist Mr. Brainwash. The vibrant art piece was part of a collaboration with former First Lady Michelle Obama and the initiative "Let Girls Learn", aimed at providing educational opportunities for girls worldwide.
In 2016, on International Women's Day, Union Market in Washington, D.C. became home to the inspiring "Never Give Up" mural. The mural's bold message, surrounded by vibrant heart motifs, embodies themes of perseverance and love. Over the years, it has become an iconic symbol of resilience and hope within the District of Columbia and beyond.Mr. Brainwash, an L.A.-based artist with murals from the US to London and Dubai, was commissioned to create a 'Let Girls Learn' themed mural. He and his team worked overnight for 14 hours to bring this artwork to life, and gifted an array of additional building-long murals. While the commissioned artwork and other elements have since been painted over, the gifted Never Give Up wall still stands today.
"I feel honored to be here so close to the White House, and happy that I am able to leave a mark," says Mr. Brainwash, one of the stars of the street art documentary Exit Through the Gift Shop. "I will be back and try to do more because I feel like Washington, D.C. needs it. When I drive, I see so many blank walls that could have messages for people to see life more beautifully and that they should never give up."
Mr. Brainwash believes that art has the power to be transformative and create community, a sentiment that is clearly reflected in his work here. "Art can change the world because it's something that talks loud, but is very silent," he says. "It's just a very strong message that sometimes, even if you're very silent in life, when you see it, you might yell inside. Sometimes we need to make a change to be happier and more thankful for what we have."