“Changes” by Maria Arango

Compelled to put brush to canvas following the shooting at Marjory Stoneman Douglas, South Florida artist Maria Arango struggled to come up with a concept that would reflect the loss and sadness surrounding the tragedy. Nothing clicked—that is, until she saw so many high school students standing strong, challenging the political establishment and creating a national dialogue. “A friend of mine posted the lyrics from the David Bowie song ‘Changes,’ and I knew right then that I wanted to do a painting for those who are carrying the torch [on behalf of] those who can’t,” Arango says. “The words are fitting, and the title is so apropos.” Arango is donating the 24-inch-by-30-inch work, done in acrylic paint with acrylic paint markers, to Stoneman Douglas. Visit maria-arango.pixels.com for more information on the Margate-based artist.