Artist Talks with 1001 Colors Apprentices: Session III

Go beyond the finished artwork and hear directly from the emerging artists who are shaping 1001 Colors’ 2026 summer season. This three-part Artist Talk Series offers an inside look at the creative process, collaboration, challenges, and impact behind some of the region's most exciting public art, design, and youth apprenticeship projects.

Each session features project presentations, behind-the-scenes stories, works in progress, and opportunities to engage with the artists and teams bringing these initiatives to life.

Featured Projects

2025 Annual Report Design
Apprentices are partnering with designer and educator Kate Tepe to create 1001 Colors’ 2025 Impact Report, learning graphic design, visual communication, and storytelling while helping shape how the organization shares its impact with the community.

Mt. Healthy Traditional Sign Painting
This apprenticeship project introduces young artists to the craft of hand-painted signage. Working alongside a professional sign painter, participants will create storefront signs that support revitalization efforts in Mt. Healthy's historic business district.

Heilbrun and Leahr Mural
Funded through America 250, this mural tells the remarkable story of friendship between Cincinnatians John Leahr, a Black World War II pilot and Tuskegee Airman, and Herb Heilbrun, a white World War II pilot. The project highlights a powerful and often untold story of friendship, resilience, and shared history.

Tuskegee Airmen Mural Series (America 250)
One of 1001 Colors’ most ambitious projects to date, this statewide initiative will create 13 portrait murals honoring Tuskegee Airmen from Ohio. Installed in cities including Cincinnati, Cleveland, and Akron, the series celebrates legacy, service, and representation while connecting communities through public art.

Join the Conversation

Whether you're an artist, educator, supporter of public art, or simply curious about how creative projects come to life, the 1001 Colors Artist Talk Series offers a rare opportunity to experience the stories, partnerships, and people behind the work.