University of Denver Hilltoppers coach Austin Zucchini-Fowler has found a way to use his artistic passion to show solidarity with healthcare workers during the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic.
Zucchini-Fowler, who has coached the club team for nine years, has had an interest in the arts dating back to his high school days, and last fall he started producing street (public) art.
Since the coronavirus hit, he has created one mural of a healthcare worker, and was planning on completing his second Tuesday evening.
“It started as a thank you to my close friends and family who work in health care, and has developed into much more,” he told SwimSwam. “The response has been incredible. Lots of gratitude.”
The murals are located at Colfax and Williams and the Rino EXDO Center in Denver.
The 31-year-old Phoenix native plans to continue to produce murals around the city to show support for all essential workers during this difficult time.
“I would like to offer my gratitude and bring attention to other essential workers,” he said. “We are all battling COVID-19 right now, and many are stepping up in incredible ways.”
Zucchini-Fowler has continued to guide his swimmers remotely, though he admits it has been an adjustment. Now he must manage his duties both as a coach and in his artistic endeavours.
“Coaching online is challenging,” he said. “The University of Denver Hilltoppers is stepping up in many ways to still be able to offer connection and workout guidance in this new dynamic. I am getting used to it but now my challenge is to balance my responsibilities as a coach and artist.”
You can also purchase his pieces, along with shirts featuring his work, here.
My wife posted a Alicia Keys video of her beautiful tribute to front line workers called “Good Job.” Imagine my surprise when one of coach’s murals was featured in the video. “I just read about this guy this morning.” 3:28 or so in https://youtu.be/N63tvQBwSSw
As a critical care nurse, I find these images amazing. Thank-you Coach Austin!
Austin these are just fantastic. You are so talented!
Austin you are so talented. These are just fantastic!
Austin is a wonderful coach, mentor, and person. One of the most selfless coaches I have ever swam for. Keep leading and inspiring young swimmers and artists, Austin!
This is incredibly nice. Thank you!