Artist’s ambitious mural series aims to unite all 50 states through public art, place, & botanical identity
SALEM — International artist Hells Gibson has completed the third mural in her FLOWERS OF 50 STATES project; an ongoing nationwide public art initiative that will bring a floral mural to every U.S. state. Inspired by the official flowers that represent each state’s unique history, landscape, and cultural identity, the project transforms public spaces into vibrant celebrations of local pride and shared national connection.
Each mural features the phrase “FLOWERS GROW IN…” alongside the state’s official flower, creating a recognizable visual language that is both locally specific and universally accessible. Through bold typography, large-scale florals, and Gibson’s signature use of color, the series invites communities to see their environment through a lens of growth, beauty, and belonging.
“I’ve always loved seeing nature grow in unexpected places; weeds growing through concrete or flowers blooming in urban environments. Flowers are one of the few symbols that transcend geography, politics, and generations.” says Hells Gibson. “The phrase “Flowers Grow in…” is both literal and symbolic. It’s about resilience, growth, and the idea that beauty can emerge in unexpected places” The project has already brought murals to multiple states, with each work tailored to its location and community.
Gibson’s mural Flowers Grow in Massachusetts, was created in Salem, MA in partnership with the City’s Public Art Commission. It features the mayflower, the state’s official flower, and serves as part of Salem’s ongoing Salem 400+ celebrations. The mural reflects both the region’s natural heritage and the project’s broader mission of connecting communities through public art.
FLOWERS OF 50 STATES is entirely driven by a vision of accessibility and civic engagement. By placing artwork in highly visible public spaces, Gibson hopes to create moments of joy and recognition for residents and visitors alike while encouraging conversations about local identity, human connection and the environment. As the project expands across the country, each mural becomes part of a growing national collection; 50 unique works connected by a common theme: that beauty can flourish anywhere.
To follow the project’s progress, explore completed murals, or inquire about future collaborations, visit www.hellsgibson.com/flowers-
About Hells Gibson
Hells Gibson is an international artist, muralist, and creative entrepreneur known for public artworks and canvases that explore life, identity, and collective experience. Gibson documents her life as a late 30-year-old woman with bold graphic gold statements on pink canvases. Extracting words and statements from everyday experiences, she navigates life, love, London and everything in-between with brutal honesty and a raw sense of humor.
For images and interview requests please contact:
Hells Gibson
Instagram: @hellsgibson
