Artist Spotlight: Caoin O’Durgy

Two new murals, “Froggy Waters” and “Washed Away,” bring a burst of color and personality to Worcester’s storm drains. “Froggy Waters” is located right in front of Coes Pond Beach, while “Washed Away” can be found near Mill Swan Head Start. These playful scenes feature frogs, rain clouds, and a whole lot of charm, all thanks to an artist who wants you to laugh, learn, and look closer.

The murals were created by artist Caoin O’Durgy, who originally came to Massachusetts from Utah to study engineering at WPI. But it wasn’t long before art pulled him in a new direction. “I found myself constantly filling my free time with painting and seeking artistic opportunities,” he explained. A turning point came during his first year at WPI when a professor asked, “Why aren’t you in art school?” That simple question led to a big shift. Within weeks, he had applied to MassArt.

Now a full-time artist, he describes his style in three words: vibrant, whimsical, and silly. “My biggest goal is to make people laugh. I aim for silly, funny, and cute little scenes that will make people smile,” he said. His work often includes animal characters and bold, playful colors.

Creating public art is especially meaningful. “It is an honor to create work that can be engaged with, inspire others, or even be used as a landmark for years to come. The process itself is so special too—I love talking to community members while I’m working. That connection makes the piece feel like part of the neighborhood.”

With “Froggy Waters,” the artist imagined a frog enjoying the water to help discourage dumping. “No one wants to swim around in trash,” he said. For “Washed Away,” he painted rainwater flowing into the pond, with a little frog along for the ride. It’s a simple, playful way to help people visualize how stormwater—and whatever’s in it—moves through our environment.

“I want someone to smile and understand the impacts of dumping,” he said. “If someone sees my mural and starts thinking about where that trash is going, that’s a win.”

The chance to make a lasting impact is not lost on the artist. “It is really sweet knowing that my art can have an impact on our community.”

Public art, especially in neighborhoods like these, helps create local ownership and pride. “It instills a sense of obligation for a space. People feel more connected to it, and to each other, and want to care for it. Art also gives us a chance to educate and celebrate a community. It’s an incredibly powerful tool.”

When asked what role artists can play in social and environmental change, he quoted Albert Einstein: “The Revolution introduced me to art, and in turn, art introduced me to the Revolution.” Art, he says, demands attention and creates space for conversation. “We as artists have the responsibility to use this tool to promote change.”

“Froggy Waters” and “Washed Away” were created in collaboration with Worcester Green Corps, Sharinna Travieso, and the Worcester DPW, with support from the Mass Cultural Council, the New England Grassroots Fund, and the FY25 State Earmark, allocated by Senator Mike Moore.

If you’re nearby, take a walk and check them out. You might find yourself smiling and thinking, just like the little frog would want you to.

You can follow Caoin’s work on:

• Link
• Instagram
• Link

Catch Basin Murals