Every Day is a New Beginning: The "Miss Mary" Piano Project Begins

Welcome to my May Artist Blog!

I’m B.J. Lane, a visual artist based in Fallbrook, California, and this month I’m beginning something extraordinary—transforming a piano into a painted celebration of music, theater, and community.

This piano, named Miss Mary, will become a permanent public art installation at the Sunshine Brooks Theatre in Oceanside. It’s part of a powerful program by the Oceanside Cultural Arts Foundation (OCAF) to bring art and music into the heart of our cities.

But this project is about more than paint.

I’ve made a personal commitment: for the next two and a half months, I’ve paused all other work to bring this vision to life. That means not only stepping away from my usual commissions but also needing help caring for my disabled daughter so I can complete this labor of love.

My dear friend and collaborative artist, Aileen Merling, is creating a GoFundMe page to help cover caregiving costs. This support allows me to be fully present with the project, knowing my daughter is safe and supported.

If you believe in art, in care, in community—please consider donating or sharing the link. Every act of support helps us bring this dream to life.

This project is more than paint on a piano—it’s a celebration of what brings us together: music, theater, and shared creativity.

I can’t wait to take you with me on this journey all month long.

With gratitude,

B.J. Lane

http://www.bjlaneartgallery.com