Above and far right : some of the brick designs on display in front of Sheddan ’ s house , including her kids ’ footprints
something … [ as ] mundane as a brick into a colorful piece of art .
LBM : How has the community been responding to the gallery ? NS : That was one of my biggest fears initially . When I first created the [ gallery ] sign , I put it outside my fence in the dark because I was so nervous — what if no one wants to participate ? What if no one paints these bricks ? It felt very vulnerable . But the intent behind Brooks Bricks was always to create a stronger community , to allow everyone to openly express themselves and be seen by others . And I think we all yearn for that . So the painted bricks started pouring in and I quickly ran out of room . … I had to keep coming up with creative ways to make more room to display the bricks .
LBM : Why do you think people should get involved ? NS : A lot of people tell me “ I painted this brick with my grandson ” or “ my girlfriend and I are going to paint these bricks together .” I think the process of painting the bricks allows families to spend more quality time together . And the end result of that quality time is displayed for everyone in the community to enjoy . Plus , it spreads joy throughout our neighborhood .
LBM : What are some of your favorite bricks in the display ? NS : They are all my favorite [ s ], from the funny ones , like “ One Month Rent ” … [ and ] “ Throw Me ,” to the beautiful “ Laguna Lifeguards [ for Life ]” brick . But my absolute favorite [ s ] are the ones that have my kids ’ footprints and say “ One Step at a Time .” It ’ s such a metaphor for Brooks Bricks and life — a community is built one brick at a time . g
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LAGUNA BEACH MAGAZINE 35