From the Bay to the Island: Three St. Pete Artists Make Impactful Moves in Puerto Rico Through Art
- Alexa Espinosa
- Dec 2, 2025
- 3 min read
When Sketzii first asked me to assist with the Isabela Paseo Pablo Perez Mural Project, I had no idea how deeply this experience would impact me. I’d never held an "official" project manager title, but as the eldest child of a single mom (and a Virgo, let’s be real), I’ve basically been managing projects my whole life.
I had also never worked on a mural project this large or this far from home. But as I learned more about Mi Patria’s mission, a mural to engage the city and raise awareness around Autism and Down Syndrome, I started mentally planning. I was nervous, yes, but I somehow knew everything would work out.
Like most creative projects, there were some mishaps, but they taught me how to adapt and plan better for the days ahead. During my time in Puerto Rico, I collaborated closely with Sketzii, Jason (Wayward Walls), members of the Mi Patria team, and a number of dedicated volunteers. Somehow, we found a rhythm, balancing trust, shared leadership, and individual strength. We’d end each day by asking: “What’s one goal that would make you feel good if we hit it tomorrow? What’s your second? Your third?” That third one was the "bare minimum", just enough to call the day a win.
This project was never just about painting a wall. It was about leaning into ourselves, and allowing others to step into our doubt and pull us through it. We worked day and night shifts. In the second week, Sketzii and I even clocked into our 9-5 non-profit jobs remotely during the day, then packed our snacks and headed to the Paseo to start our second shift.
Jason said it best: "I’ve always found myself leading these types of projects, but I largely took a step back this time because the leadership of Ketsy and Alexa was so good. It was honestly nice to just 'be a painter,' show up each day, and work without needing to worry about the larger logistics." We had weekends off that first week, and took time to explore. Lares stood out to me, it was full of murals, history, and ice cream. The murals featured strong, feminine-presenting figures holding machetes, not just nurturers, but fighters. Soldiers for independence. They reminded me of me: soft, yet hard. It made me wonder how many of my ancestors fought in their own way for what’s right. That weekend gave me the energy I needed to finish strong.
We also partnered with Terraviv, a church and volunteer group that brought their own energy to the Paseo. It had been a while since I’d walked down a street and heard worship music that resonated with me. I got emotional. Their prayers and presence felt genuine. At the end of each day, they’d lay hands or pray us out. If you know, you know. As Sketzii said: "This project with Mi Patria, the dedicated team of volunteers, including Terraviv, is more than an artistic endeavor. It's a testament to collaboration and support for families with disabilities. By bringing together my talented colleagues from St. Petersburg and passionate organizations, we've not only created a mural but are contributing to the rehabilitation projects in Puerto Rico. I am always grateful to be able to use art to fulfill a greater purpose."
Mi Patria understood the mission. They showed up daily, helping us set up and take down. We all knew how important this message was. At the end of the project, I was "coined", a military tradition honoring someone’s service. It was beautiful. Our hosts, Gloria, Edwin, and Abuela, welcomed us like family. Their home was a place of laughter, real conversations, and peace. After long days, it was the perfect place to rest.
This trip was everything I didn’t know I needed. It tested me mentally, and reminded me that I do know what I’m doing. I’m meant to be here. I’m making a difference. Every misstep, every leap of faith in "trusting myself," has helped bring color back into my pages. I can’t wait to get my hands dirty with more projects like this.
To book Sketzii or Jason (Wayward Walls) for their work follow them on Instagram or go to their websites.
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