Two local artists are teaming up for a new mural on the campus of The Oberle Academy this spring.
Gabe Pons and Sophia Pineda are working on a new mural for The Oberle Academy, to be unveiled this spring. (Photos courtesy The Oberle Academy.)
Sophia Pineda and Gabe Pons are known across the Fredericksburg region for their vibrant, community-center murals, including projects at Lafayette Elementary School, Hugh Mercer Elementary School and James Monroe High School.
Pineda is a 22-year-old woman with Down syndrome who has studied Chinese brushstroke/Sumi-e watercolor painting for several years with HsiMei Yates at LibertyTown Arts Workshop. More recently, she’s begun to explore acrylic painting, pottery, and collages — as well as helping to create murals in her community. Her work has been displayed at The Kennedy Center and the Chinese American Museum, both in Washington, D.C., as well as through the Artists4ERA national campaign.
Pons is known for his graphic design artwork, many murals in the area and his work on unconventional canvases. Pons and his wife Scarlett own PONSHOP Studio and Gallery in downtown Fredericksburg.
The new mural was inspired by heartfelt lunchtime conversations between The Oberle Academy’s President and CEO, Al Fagan, and student Allen, whose fascination with butterflies and wildlife sparked the vision for this piece. The mural captures Allen’s love for nature, as well as transformation and growth, themes which directly reflect the school’s mission to Educate. Empower. Employ.
“It is incredibly meaningful to welcome Gabe and Sophia to The Oberle Academy family this spring,” said Dr. Kim Doucette, vice president of admissions and advancement. “I had the privilege of being part of the planning and creative process for their fabulous garden mural at Hugh Mercer Elementary, and I witnessed firsthand how their work brings a school community together. I am thrilled that our students will now experience that same sense of pride, creativity, and connection here at Oberle.”
The Oberle Academy is a private day school in Fredericksburg dedicated to providing individualized education and workforce readiness opportunities for students in grades 3–12 and postgraduates. Through its CTE programs, community partnerships, and specialized education, the school prepares students for successful futures.
The mural installation continues The Oberle Academy’s commitment to blending creativity, community, and education.
