Projects
01
COFO Museum, Jackson, MS | Community Mural Project | 2022 | On the historic Council of Federated Organizations (COFO) building, celebrating local civil rights leaders.
Chain-Breakers is a powerful and unifying mural that pays tribute to six influential figures whose courage, conviction, and community leadership helped shape the civil rights movement in Jackson, Mississippi. Painted in warm, earthy tones that evoke both resilience and rootedness, this monumental piece honors Representative Alyce Clarke, Fannie Lou Hamer, Robert "Bob" Moses, Rose Elizabeth Howard Robinson, Mrs. Louise Marshall, and Albert Powell, each selected by local community members for their transformative impact and unwavering commitment to justice.
Stretching across a wide expanse of wall, the mural features portraiture that captures more than physical likeness; it conveys the enduring spirit, dignity, and strength of these local heroes. Beneath their images, a heavy iron chain runs the full length of the piece, its solid links symbolizing the oppression, systemic injustice, and generational challenges faced by the Black community. At the heart of the mural, however, the chain is broken. A radiant burst of soft yellow light emanates from this central rupture, scattering glowing shards outward like seeds of hope and revolution.
This broken chain is more than a moment of impact; it is a visual declaration of transformation. It speaks to the legacy of those who refused to be bound by injustice and instead forged paths forward -paths of advocacy, education, and deep-rooted faith. By positioning each individual above the chain, the composition lifts them as visionaries and liberators, those who rose beyond limitations and reached toward a shared destiny of freedom and equity.
Hand-painted with care and reverence, Chain-Breakers is not merely a mural, it is a living testament to the soul of a community and its ongoing pursuit of justice. It stands as a visual anthem of resilience, echoing the lives and voices of those who paved the way and continuing to inspire those who walk the path today.
With each passing glance, Chain-Breakers invites reflection, pride, and renewed commitment. It challenges all who encounter it to honor the past by building a more just and unified future.
02
LIVE. IMPACT. CREATE. Initiative
Sabrina served as a "Creative Connector" and an "Artist Fellow" for Jackson Mississippi’s Live. Impact. Create. Initiative which was funded through a $1.2M award received from the Surdna Foundation as part of a regranting and municipal partnership, to invest in artists from communities of color.
03
Sowing the Seeds of Love
Blackburn Learning Garden, Jackson, MS | Jackson State University (JSU) & Bloomberg Philanthropies Public Art Challenge | 2021
The program invites mayors, community leaders, artists, and residents to collaborate on temporary public art projects that shine a light on critical issues and encourage action to address them. The five projects selected in the 2018 Public Art Challenge tackle issues including food equity, racial justice, neighborhood blight, healing after gun violence, and climate change.
Art description: We can help change the world by what we sow into our children. The knowledge and tools passed down from generation to generation are necessary for sculpting our future. To illustrate this, there is a boy and girl sitting under vegetation that resembles collards with their arm extended. In each hand is another male and female with a similar pose but holding a seedling. This represents the natural and generational growth cycle.
04
A Beacon of Light
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.
05
Shifting Cultures
Community Mural
Dimensions: 5.5’, 180’ (estimate)
Medium: exterior paint on concrete retainer wall
Mural Location: Pascagoula Street downtown Jackson
Client: Arts Infusion/Jackson Public Schools
Budget: unknown
Located along the retainer wall of the Arts Center of Mississippi, facing Pascagoula Street in downtown Jackson, Shifting Cultures is a vibrant community mural that celebrates unity, diversity, creativity, and the divine guidance that holds communities together. Under the leadership of artist Sabrina Howard, this expansive work of public art came to life through the hands and hearts of young artists from Clausell, Lake, Pecan Park, and Raines Elementary Schools, along with dedicated community members.
The mural stretches wide across the wall in a beautiful flow of vividly colored silhouetted heads, layered and overlapping to represent individuals from all walks of life blending together. The overlapping of colors like blue, pink, orange, green, purple, and gray reflects not only the artistic technique of color mixing—something the children learned and practiced—but also the deeper spiritual truth that when people of all backgrounds come together, guided by faith and hope, they create something greater than themselves: community.
One especially powerful silhouette holds the paint-soaked handprints of the students and community members who contributed to the mural, a visual of unity and human connection. These handprints serve as a reminder that we are all part of something bigger, and that through GOD’s grace, our individual contributions help shape a more loving and inclusive world.
Set against a crisp white background, the mural’s radiant colors shine brightly against the muted tones of downtown Jackson. Artist Sabrina Howard’s signature touches add layers of meaning, including a compelling image at the far end: a baby in silhouette, crawling off the wall and onto the sidewalk. This symbol of new beginnings, the promise of the future, and the presence of God in the journey ahead, reminds viewers that the work of culture-making is ongoing—and that every generation must carry it forward with faith, purpose, and love.
Shifting Cultures is more than a mural - it is a spiritual and visual testimony to what is possible when a community comes together with creativity, hope, and belief in GOD’s guiding hand.
06
Arts Infusion Henley-Young Juvenile Justice Center, Jackson, MS | Greater Jackson Arts Council | 2023
Collaborative wall installation created with justice-involved youth through canvas painting and dialogue.
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Participating students selected words of encouragement and personal color palettes, then painted individual panels that were later assembled into a unified composition.
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Project culminated in a permanent installation inside the juvenile court facility to promote healing, dignity, and youth expression.
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Artist led creative workshops, facilitated restorative roundtables, and completed final installation with custom framing and layout.
07
Let Your Light Shine is a powerful mural that captures the transformative journey of self-discovery and the profound strength found in embracing individuality. Located in the heart of the University Student Lounge, this vibrant piece invites viewers to pause, reflect, and recognize their inherent worth and untapped potential.
The mural spans the wall in an array of dynamic blues, sculpting two hands in a gesture both tender and purposeful, cradling a radiant light at the center. This glowing light symbolizes inner strength, hope, and self-realization, casting an inviting aura throughout the space. It is a beacon of warmth and purpose, encouraging all who encounter it to reflect on their own journey toward authenticity.
Bold, three-dimensional text spells out “Let Your Light Shine,” with the word “shine” gleaming in a glossy finish that captures and reflects the ambient light of the room. This reflective surface causes the word to shimmer with life, amplifying the mural’s presence and sending ripples of blue outward, visually mimicking the radiance of personal expression and connection. These waves symbolize how our true selves, when embraced, have the power to ripple outward, creating positive change and fostering unity.
In a space that fosters learning, collaboration, and personal growth, this mural speaks to students, faculty, and visitors alike. It is a reminder that the most meaningful achievements and innovations arise not from conforming to external expectations, but from celebrating our authentic selves. In a world often shaped by trends and societal pressures, Let Your Light Shine invites us to trust in the light within, nurture it, and share it unapologetically with the world. By embracing our inner glow, we free ourselves from the confines of outside influence, allowing our unique gifts, creativity, and perspectives to flourish.
It is more than just a visual experience, Let Your Light Shine is a call to action. It encourages us to contribute our light to the collective spirit of the community, to share our true selves, and to empower others to do the same. In a time when authenticity is often overshadowed, this mural serves as a bold reminder that by letting our light shine, we create space for others to do the same.
A celebration of individuality, creativity, and empowerment, Let Your Light Shine resonates deeply in this setting, where students are continually exploring their identities and the boundless potential within them. It invites all who encounter it to embrace their true selves, pursue their dreams with confidence, and leave a lasting impact on the world.
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08
Acrylic on custom-built 3-dimensional stacked canvas
By Sabrina Howard
Commissioned for the Medgar & Myrlie Evers Home National Monument
Evers Ever After is a multidimensional acrylic painting by Mississippi artist Sabrina Howard, created to honor the enduring legacy of Medgar and Myrlie Evers. Designed on a hand-built, three-dimensional stacked canvas platform, the work transcends traditional painting by combining visual storytelling with sculptural depth. The layered construction symbolizes the many facets of the Evers’ lives—personal, political, spiritual—and how those layers continue to shape our collective history.
Rendered in a warm, nostalgic palette of earthy greens, rich browns, and soft neutrals, the painting evokes the familiar textures and tones of Black Southern life in the 1960s and 70s. These colors speak to the beauty of everyday living—wood-paneled kitchens, patterned fabrics, sunlight through screen doors—all underscored by a deep and unshakable faith in God that carried families through unimaginable trials.
Inspired by archival photographs of the Evers family and their home, the painting features a family portrait on expressly built three-dimensional abstract platform. Through these expressive forms, Howard invites viewers to connect emotionally—to feel the quiet strength of a home fortified by love, activism, and a profound belief in divine purpose.
At its heart, Evers Ever After is a visual prayer: a testament to the faith that sustained the Evers family, and to the hope that lives on through their legacy. It honors a love story not only between two people, but between a people and their calling to pursue justice—with God at the center.
More than a tribute, this work is a sacred reflection on the power of home, the resilience of community, and the eternal presence of God’s hand in the fight for freedom. Evers Ever After is a layered legacy—one that continues to speak, inspire, and affirm what it means to live faithfully, purposefully, and together.
09
Concrete pavement paint on asphalt
This project was to document and amplify the many ways local residents, businesses, and institutions are transforming and strengthening Jackson and its public image and identity.
We hoped that this mural would get people talking and share positive stories about our city.
Effective Goals of this mural project: To expand participation and conversation on the strength of
Jackson and to use this art messaging campaign to get more people in
the community talking about Jackson's value, especially people whose voices might not be heard or
appreciated otherwise.
With this project, the hope is to use a public art contributions to help the community talk about hard things in a positive way.
