Photo was taken during painting process of creating a mural for PAL NYC (In the frame: director and muralist, Kyle Holbrook (left) writer and painter, Andreana Diaz (right)
Kyle Holbrook, a Pittsburgh native artist, has created murals worldwide and influenced communities globally through artistic expressions of memorable people, instances in history, and exciting concepts with resonating colors. By creating a movie in 2013 named Art of Life and recently this month releasing it on Amazon’s worldwide platform, he was able to use his creativity in a unique way to influence the masses.
During an interview with writer Shirley McMarlin, Holbrook, the founder of the Moving the Lives of Kids (MLK) Mural Project, admits, “It’s a different medium for me.”
His company, since 2002, has allowed people of all characteristics to “come together and paint” while contributing to his murals that impact the public on large platforms. His inclusivity and participation of youth have shown positive effects numerous communities’ development and futures with art. His past work includes more than 200 Pittsburgh public art projects, murals in Miami, London, Italy, New York, and many other well-known places. His newly released movie features acting from himself and Joy Taylor, poetry from Vanessa German and never released music from late Pittsburgh native rapper, Mac Miller.
He also stated in the interview that more than just an action movie, Art of Life contains animation, color manipulation and other features that make it more of a work of art. Due to “violence, language, and nudity,” he adds, the movie is appropriate for mature audiences only.
“I’m on a mission to be free in the art of life,” Holbrook echoes during the beginning narratives of the film. This foreshadows the personal entrapment that the two main characters are experiencing as their identities become revealed. The rawness of the film captures attention while providing realistic insights on the lives of people who have been able to change through positive influences of art and peers willing to support their dreams. After watching the movie, the audience is able to become more aware of their own dreams and surroundings, gain insight on the impact of art, and feel truly entertained and enlightened.
Kymberly Todd, CEO of Leaf Age LLC, a sustainable wellness of environment company which uses Teslas to provide eco-friendly rides, stated after watching the movie, that it was a great depiction of life and did a wonderful job of showcasing how people can create meaning and purpose no matter where they are in their journey. Her beliefs are that we are creatures of habit and circumstance so when given a chance to change, we can better ourselves and provide hope for others. She stated, “If we chose to see the negative aspects of our surroundings as opportunities to create positive changes and are blessed enough to have great support systems, togetherness with wisdom and perseverance will create universal positive impacts.” She was very inspired after watching the film to continue developing her company and remain true to her mission of helping people and the environment.
During hard times such as we’re living in today, it may seem easy to fall into doubt, but when you’re aware of your passions and are persistent enough to create your ideal path for yourself, you persevere. Having like-minded people support you during difficulties is essential and it’s always refreshing for the media to shine a light on the importance of this. This film is helpful to those lacking hope, it’s extremely enjoyable and it’s highly recommended due to its contrast with other mainstream movies. Kyle Holbrook truly succeeded at bringing forward perception of the powerful influence of art and community. Through living in abundance with art and continuously seeking routes of exposure to help improve the lives of others, he was able to create and finally release this phenomenal film, The Art of Life.
