07/09/2026
"Elemental Confluence" 🔥💧
The mural project I've been hinting at lately is now underway at Optimus Steel.
Many locals still remember it as North Star Steel, and the site has been producing steel in one form or another for decades before becoming Optimus. In fact, my deadline is the 50th anniversary of the mill! 🎂 Today, it manufactures wire rod, rebar and billets that are used throughout American industry.
Swipe to see a little of the design process. First comes mental concept, then pencil, ruler, compass and composition. Then comes the digital layout, where photographs, drawing and design come together.
As for AI? It may enter the conversation later as a tool for feedback or exploring alternatives. The concept, composition, all lines (using my XP Pen in the second photo) and artwork itself are my own from the first sketch forward. Like any of my clients, Optimus values originality and artistic integrity above all else.
Halfway through my initial meeting with Optimus I knew what I wanted to create, and knew I wanted to title it "Elemental Confluence."
Paint starts going up next week. Look for the North Star in the sky I will be painting for my mother, who worked there when I was young. ✨️🐊🎨
- Meghan
