In North Olmsted, a community that experienced unspeakable tragedy earlier this year, a mural has emerged as a beacon of solace and memory. The image of bright-colored dinosaurs now enlivens a wall on T.L. Rooney's business facade, an emotional tribute to Julian Wood, the three-year-old boy whose life was cut tragically short. Renowned artist Arlin Graff has picked up his paintbrushes to honor Julian, and in doing so, he's threading together the grief and resilience of a shocked community.
Rattled by the incident that occurred just feet away from his home, Graff, who had avoided the Giant Eagle parking lot site for some time after the attack, felt an urge to contribute to the memory of the young boy, drawing inspiration from Julian's favorite color and dinosaurs. In an interview obtained by Cleveland19, Graff noted, "We stop in front of this wall, and I said, 'Maybe I should do something.'" Laboring approximately eight hours each day, Graff dedicated his effort to pushing back what he described as a "dark cloud" over the area.
The project was set into motion swiftly, with local businesses and the city pouring out support. Sherwin Williams donated paint, and the city officials did not delay greenlighting the venture. T.L. Rooney Cleaning Company provided the canvas. Under the stroke impacted by the news, the business owner, Terry Rooney, told FOX8, "They contacted us and once we found out what they wanted to do, we’re like, ‘okay, let’s do it!’'".
When the Wood family visited during the week, an emotional connection was formed. Speaking to Cleveland19, Graff recalled the family's reaction: "I didn't realize it, but they told me his birthday was yesterday when they told me they got me." Using house paint for durability and longevity, his work stands as both a memorial and a message of community unity in the face of despair.
As the project nears completion, Julian's memory lives on, with Graff hoping the mural would bring comfort. The assailant, Bionca Ellis, has been found incompetent to stand trial, thus concluding a dark chapter of the story. However, as the bright colors claim their permanent space in North Olmsted, Julian's legacy ensures that hope persists amidst the sorrow, according to interviews by News 5 Cleveland.
