Forever Breathing in our Hearts @ Scott Food Mart

Forever Breathing in Our Hearts (George Floyd) is the large-scale black and white portrait of George Floyd who emerges winged against a blue background. Above his head, in the shape of a halo, is written “forever breathing in our hearts” in yellow color. The mural was painted by Sylvia Roman (Donkeemom), her son Alex Roman Jr. (“Donkeeboy”), and Mandi Quintanilla. Floyd’s portrait resembles his photograph that was widely circulated by the media along with video recordings of his killing by Minneapolis police officers on May 5th, 2020. In the audio recordings, one can hear Floyd saying “I can’t breathe” repeatedly while Derek Chauvine asphyxiates him. His family and friends gathered in his remembrance during one of the early protests at this junction where the artists were painting simultaneously. The mural is located near where George Floyd grew up and the house of his grandmother. The conjunction of these streets is a popular place for community gatherings. The mural transforms the streets into a sacred space functioning as a memorial. This experience is enhanced by people’s offerings including candles, flowers, prayers, and balloons spelling Floyd’s last name.

Creator: Donkeemom and Donkeeboy

Area: Houston / Third Ward-MacGregor

Collection: George Floyd Memorial

Contributor: Hector Garcia

Source: Center for Mexican American Studies

Uploaded by: Hector Garcia

Copyright status: In copyright

Center for Mexican American Studies