Sabrina Howard was one of the local Artist in Jackson Mississippi selected to create an outdoor mural about food access and equity. The Mural is titled: Sowing the Seeds of Love which features likenesses of her two younger children sitting under edible vegetation.

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She is also featured in the Bloomberg 2020 Annual Report.

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Jackson’s Fertile Ground project received $1 million to

support a series of efforts — from a documentary to exhibitions, performances, and other events — focused on improving nutrition and food access in the city, an issue that is more important than ever with food insecurity on the rise due to the pandemic.

Traffic Signal Box

The Traffic Signal Box serves as a powerful tribute to Jackson State University (JSU), an institution whose rich history is deeply intertwined with the fight for educational access, civil rights, and the unwavering light of faith. Established in 1877 as a seminary college, JSU has evolved into one of the nation’s most prominent historically Black universities. Drawing from the the book of Matthew 5:14-16, this artwork reflects the university's pivotal role in shaping future generations and impacting the broader community. Positioned at a significant intersection near the JSU campus, this traffic signal box functions as a beacon of divine purpose, faith, and educational excellence that cannot be hidden.

The scripture Matthew 5:14 - "A city that is set on a hill cannot be hid"- resonates deeply with JSU’s legacy. Founded in Natchez, Mississippi, as a seminary school, the institution’s roots were grounded in divine instruction. After relocating to Jackson in 1882, it became Jackson College, later transitioning to Jackson State College, and finally Jackson State University in 1974. From its inception, JSU has been a sanctuary of knowledge, empowerment, and faith, particularly for African Americans during a time when educational opportunities were often limited.

JSU’s history is marked by resilience, activism, and the pursuit of justice. The 1960s and 1970s were formative years for the university. The 1967 student protests and the 1970 Jackson State shooting, when two students lost their lives during a confrontation with law enforcement highlight the institution’s central role in the Civil Rights Movement. JSU’s commitment to activism, social justice, and academic excellence cemented its place as a powerful force for change, not only in Mississippi but across the nation. Today, the university continues to honor this legacy by fostering a diverse, inclusive community and offering transformative education to students of all backgrounds.

The Traffic Signal Box embodies the message of Matthew 5:14-16, celebrating the light that JSU has shared with the city of Jackson and beyond for over 140 years. The box symbolizes the divine light that has guided the university community through triumphs and challenges. Surrounded by two historic churches, Greater Bethlehem Temple and Greater Mopunt Calvary, this artwork stands as a reminder of JSU’s role as a pillar of faith, knowledge, and hope in the heart of the city.

it features three-dimensional inscriptions of the scripture Matthew 5:14-16, with each side highlighting a different portion of the passage. Hand-painted with a mix of cool sky blues and warm earthy tones, the artwork evokes a sense of spiritual unity between heaven and earth. Figures of students with arms raised in praise are depicted throughout the piece, symbolizing the reverence, gratitude, and spirit of unity that defines the JSU community.

On the west side, Matthew 5:14 is rendered in raised 3D text, stating: "Ye are the light of the world. A city that is set on a hill cannot be hid." Beneath this inscription is an illustration of the iconic “Yard,” a popular gathering place on campus where students come together to celebrate, fellowship, and rally for change. Above the Yard, figures are shown with arms extended upward, offering their praises and affirmations to God.

On the south side, Matthew 5:15 continues: "Neither do men light a candle, and put it under a bushel, but on a candlestick; and it giveth light unto all that are in the house." This passage is complemented by a depiction of the Yard, with the lush landscape of JSU’s campus behind the famous curved brick sign reading “JACKSON STATE University.” More students, with arms raised in praise, fill the space above, symbolizing unity and collective worship.

On the east side, Matthew 5:16 completes the passage: "Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven." Figures of students continue to be shown in praise, reinforcing the powerful sense of community and faith that permeates the JSU campus.

The Traffic Signal Box is a visual celebration of Jackson State University’s legacy, one that spans over a century of transformation, resistance, and triumph. It honors the university’s commitment to faith, justice, and the pursuit of knowledge, while also calling on all who encounter it to reflect on the light within themselves. This public artwork serves as a reminder that we are all called to shine our light before the world, to glorify the Father, and to inspire future generations to continue the work of faith, hope, and justice.