A Burst of Color in Andrew Square: “Nation in Bloom” Mural Unveiled
Southie’s got a fresh new splash of color, and it’s turning heads for all the right reasons. A stunning new mural titled “Nation in Bloom” is on display in Andrew Square, bringing a vibrant and meaningful message to the side of 313 Old Colony Ave. The artist behind the piece? Liv Mileika—a Boston-area artist whose murals are transforming neighborhoods. You can follow her work on Instagram at @livtopaint.
Commissioned by the Andrew Square Civic Association (ASCA), the mural was made possible through a grant from the City of Boston, which aims to bring more public art and joy to the neighborhood. After some creative collaboration, Liv brought her signature style to Southie, using flowers as a visual language to reflect the area’s diverse and ever-evolving community.
“Nation in Bloom” is more than a beautiful wall—it’s a symbolic representation of the nationalities that make up South Boston. Each flower in the mural has a meaning: the Easter lily for Ireland, the red poppy for Poland, and the lotus representing India, Vietnam, and Egypt, among others. “This mural is a representation of community and the melting pot that South Boston has become,” Liv shared.
Creating the mural wasn’t without its challenges. Liv spent two weeks bringing the vision to life during one of the hottest stretches of the summer. “I was getting to work around 5 a.m. and painting until noon, by then it was too hot and sunny and my paints wouldn’t cooperate,” she said. Luckily, she had some backup—her brother, also an artist, stepped in to lend a hand.
With layers of meaning and color, “Nation in Bloom” is more than public art—it’s a reminder of the beauty in our differences, and the strength that comes from community. Swing by Andrew Square, check it out in person, and don’t forget to tag @livtopaint when you take a pic!
Maureen Dahill is the founder of Caught in Media. Once a longtime wardrobe and prop stylist for brands such as Rue La La, TJ Max & Hasbro, she is a devoted lover of vintage clothing, Martini Mondays, Castle Island, AND a 4th generation South Boston native. Mother of three, married to Peter G.
Kudos to Liv (and her brother:) for infusing the neighborhood with such gorgeous artwork and an equally beautiful message during a time when our world is keenly in need of it. Many thanks
Very nice and the flowers are so vibrant. Absolutely Beautiful work. I love Southie.
WOW! Thank you! Fabulous! Such fabulous Talent.