Aiko Szymczak’s work is rooted in service, story, and healing. She has a deep passion for large-scale public artworks, with a strong focus on murals that serve communities in meaningful, lasting ways. Her work is designed with an understanding of how visual space can support safety, reflection, and emotional restoration. Her work weaves in themes of biophilic elements—nature as teacher, mirror, and medicine. She uses this visual language to reconnect people with the quiet power of the natural world, which holds space for both stillness and growth. At the heart of her practice is storytelling. Through black-and-white portraiture, she captures real people who experience moments of joy, contemplation, and hardship. These stories reflect the resilience of everyday people—the ones who rise, quietly and imperfectly, using what little they have to move forward. In Aiko’s work, blooms of color often emerge gently from grayscale moments, symbolizing the silent beauty of emotional growth and the hope that rises from adversity. She strives to create a visual exhale—an invitation to pause, feel, and listen. She often asks the viewer not to overlook the way the world whispers, because nature’s affirmations are always present for those willing to notice. She creates with the belief that when art reflects the soul of a community, it becomes a catalyst—for healing, connection, and the flourishing of all people. The mural is dedicated to the artist’s friend Julie and her son Harrison, who are Colorado Springs locals. Harrison was recently diagnosed with autism and Aiko wanted to create something meaningful for the family. There are elements throughout the mural that reference family history and heritage. The wolves represent their strength and wisdom—symbols deeply connected to them. The central wolf is howling over Garden of the Gods, enveloping Harrison in protection and love.