The newly-painted mural, “Unity in Orbit” by Joel Bergner, is a vibrant tapestry of abstract forms and bold, radiant colors, sprawling across a large wall like a cosmic map of creativity. Central to its design are nine distinct circles, a reference to the nearby landmark, 9 Pond. Each circle responds to the colors around them, as if mirroring the pond’s changing moods under shifting skies. The circles and their surroundings also have a galactic feel that remind the viewer of a cosmic scene of planets in the solar system, a nod to the iconic flying saucer architecture of the Hyattsville Public Library.
A kaleidoscope of styles and textures flows throughout the mural, blending geometric shapes and patterns with fluid, organic brushstrokes. Abstract shapes intersect and overlap, their vivid hues—electric yellows, fiery oranges, and vibrant blues—symbolizing the dynamism and diversity of the local community. The mural feels alive, its energy reflective of the harmony created when varied ideas and people converge. Small, surprising details emerge upon closer inspection: overlapping blue and turquoise swirls that resemble water, fragmented lines hinting at connection, and subtle gradients suggesting unity. The entire piece celebrates the shared creativity, culture, and vibrancy of Hyattsville, inviting viewers to see themselves within its abstract expanse.
Joel Bergner is a public artist whose large-scale murals can be found in 30 countries across 5 continents, painted in his signature style combining abstract expressions inspired by calligraphy, intimate portraits of local residents, vibrant color palettes and small details, often created by dozens of participants. Joel leads social projects in some of the world's most vulnerable communities, from Syrian refugee camps to American prisons; the favelas of Brazil to an orphanage in South Africa. In each project, he guides participants through the process of exploring critical issues they face through collaborative art-making.
Joel is the Co-Founder and CEO of Artolution, a non-profit organization that supports artists in refugee camps and marginalized communities across the world to lead their own arts programs with youth. In this role, he travels the world mentoring young artists. Joel and his Artolution programs have partnered with a variety of institutions ranging from the United Nations Refugee Agency (UNHCR) to Gucci; UNICEF to SnapChat. Joel and his work have been featured on the NBC Nightly News, CBS This Morning, NPR, Al Jazeera, Reuters and more. He lives in Washington, DC with his wife and two small daughters.
WXLLSPACE is the leading platform connecting visionary artists with real estate developers to transform walls into vibrant murals that inspire and engage communities. With a network of over 800 artists across the globe, WXLLSPACE is revolutionizing the way public art is curated and experienced. We unite creativity, innovation, and community to reimagine urban spaces, ensuring every mural tells a unique story that resonates with its surroundings. From concept to installation, WXLLSPACE streamlines the process, making it effortless to bring bold artistic visions to life while fostering meaningful connections between artists and neighborhoods.
Tour The Devon
