In 2017, in collaboration with the non-profit #hersmile, Colleen Gianatiempo conceived and art directed a public mural in downtown Martinez, from conception to completion. The project was inspired by an emotional response to the tragic passing of a young teenager to console the grieving community. Out of strife, energy was funneled to harness the power of the collective by coming together to produce a crowd- sourced piece of art that celebrated life in the community. Through a three-party-agreement, Gianatiempo navigated a two year approval process with the Parks, Recreation, Marina and Cultural Commission as well as Martinez City Council. In the end, the artist marshaled the resources of 65 volunteers, 1,200 working hours and 20 gallons of paint over the course of a year capped by the final ribbon cutting last November of 2017. Through this multi-faceted process, Gianatiempo gained extensive experience working with the city and the public.