Artist Spotlight: Aiko Itadani

A new mural near Burncoat Street Preparatory School invites passersby into a moment of peace and reflection. Titled “(Circulation),” the piece by local artist Aiko Itadani brings warmth, harmony, and imagination to a once-overlooked storm drain.

Aiko’s journey with art began in childhood. “Drawing was how I understood the world,” she says. But it was during high school in Japan that art became a path for human connection. She spent time drawing and writing poems for strangers on the street, and through those spontaneous moments, she saw how art could create space for healing. Since then, it has been a constant in her life.

Her style has shifted over the years, from bold lines and contrast to a softer, more poetic approach. “Life experiences, motherhood, and living between countries have all shaped this evolution,” Aiko shares. She now describes her work as warm, natural, and poetic, often focused on the beauty of ordinary life and the invisible threads connecting people, animals, and the environment.

That theme is at the heart of her mural. Inspired by Worcester’s legacy as the birthplace of the smiley face, Aiko included a smile as a subtle motif. From there, she imagined scenes of coexistence: animals, fish, the sun, and water flowing gently together. A turtle became the central figure, with water-drop shapes painted into its shell. “I wanted viewers—especially children—to feel a sense of closeness to nature and understand how our actions affect even the smallest creatures.”

Creating art in public, Aiko says, is less about self-expression and more about offering a gift. “I consider how it will fit into people’s daily lives, how it may surprise or comfort them.” Working outdoors also opened the door for connection. “People stop by, ask questions, and conversations happen.” Kids from the nearby school were especially captivated. A teacher shared that students were excited to see the mural unfold, and one community member told her, “Thank you for doing this for our community.”

Aiko hopes that art in public places makes people feel seen. “It brings vibrancy, life, and imagination into daily life. It invites people to slow down and feel a sense of belonging.” Her hope is that children walking by on their way to school or the library will not only notice the colors, but also feel inspired to think about their relationship with the environment.

For aspiring artists, her message is simple: “Use whatever tools you have and express yourself. Don’t wait until you feel ready.” Through art, Aiko believes people can meet others, learn about themselves, and bring color into the world around them.

“(Circulation)” is part of the Worcester Green Corps Catch Basin Mural Project, created in partnership with Sharinna Travieso, and Ian Weyburne from Worcester’s Sewer Division. It was supported by the Mass Cultural Council, the New England Grassroots Fund, and the FY25 State Earmark, allocated by Senator Mike Moore.

Next time you pass by Burncoat Street Preparatory School, take a moment to slow down. Aiko’s mural is a gentle reminder that we are all connected and that even small acts of beauty can ripple outward.

You can follow Aiko’s work on:

• Link
• Instagram

Catch Basin Murals