A local art studio in Laveen is bouncing back with the help of the community after a vandal left it in shambles. Laurie Canfield, owner of Sunshine Sunflower Studio, received an unsettling call from her neighbor last Friday about chaos unfolding at her place of business. When Canfield and her husband arrived, they discovered a suspect, later identified as Taylon Taylor-Whitefield by the Maricopa County Sheriff’s Office, had broken in and wrought havoc, ABC15 reports.
Born from destruction, a bright spot shined through as local residents and businesses rallied around Canfield, raising thousands of dollars to offset the cost of repairs estimated at $8,000 to $10,000. Even water sources turned on by Taylor-Whitefield which resulted in her neighbors running out of well water, didn't dampen the spirit of support, which came to brighten the studio's darkest hour, 12News stated.
The suspect, who police believe entered through a window, left behind scenes of disruption, with spray-painted walls in Spanish and English, damaged drywall, and rearranged furniture in the chaotic aftermath. Canfield put on a brave face during cleanup, sharing with 12News, "When I was cleaning the floors the other day, I was like, I feel like I’m healing, you know, I feel like I’m moving in a positive direction."
Feeling the love from the South Mountain community, a local muralist transformed the defaced exterior into a vibrant display of sunflowers. This artistic act of reclaiming space not only restored the studio's curb appeal but also the morale of its owner. Amadio's owner, having helped with donations, told ABC15, “I’m just so proud of my South Mountain community in how they come together and supported them in this time of need because we all go through it at times.”
Canfield found solace in the outpouring of aid that will finance the significant repair costs and additional security measures to prevent future incidents. A GoFundMe page was also launched to invite wider community support for the art studio's revival. Canfield feels fortunate despite the ordeal, telling ABC15, "I feel blessed that nobody was hurt." With Taylor-Whitefield now in custody, the Sunshine Sunflower Studio begins its journey of restoration, underpinned by neighborhood goodwill.
