Oregon Department of Human Services Mural Series

In an effort to transform DHS offices throughout Oregon into welcoming spaces for visitors in need, Color Outside the Lines worked with three local artists to facilitate the creation of permanent murals in four different locations. Avoiding government insignia, the artists drew inspiration from the family and community-oriented work of ODHS to create colorful murals that celebrate the diversity of communities served and craft a trauma-sensitive office environment. Particularly for visitors to ODHS offices, who may be dealing with stress or trauma, physical space can have a tremendous impact on physical and mental well-being. Addie Boswell created murals for the Beaverton SSP and Child Welfare (CW) office and the mural in the Hillsboro CW lobby; William Hernandez painted the mural in the Hillsboro SSP lobby; and Anisa Asakawa produced the mural at the Tigard SSP office. Completed in April 2024, the vibrant murals are now the first thing people see when they enter all four offices, and both staff members and visitors alike have reported that the murals make these spaces feel much more inviting by indicating a real commitment to community well-being.