“Women We Unite Society” Presidential Words, mural Main St, Beacon, NY by Donna Mikkelsen WORD ALCHEMY (photo by Emil Alzamora)

Mural “Presidential Words: Women, We Unite Society”

Through my mural “Presidential Words,” I explore the transformative power of language to unite, inspire, and shape collective identity. This work, displayed prominently on Main Street as part of the “Word Alchemy” series, draws from historical presidential quotes to highlight timeless values and create a tapestry of connection through words.

In this piece, I uncover the “super words” hidden within these historic statements, spelling out a greater message: “Women, We Unite Society.” The words chosen—spoken by leaders such as Barack Obama, Franklin D. Roosevelt, Grover Cleveland, and John Adams—resonate with ideals of equality, solidarity, and progress. Through this process, I illuminate how fragments of our history can converge to address contemporary truths, empowering viewers to see the alchemy of language in action.

“Presidential Words” invites the audience to reflect on the role of leadership, the enduring struggle for unity, and the often-overlooked presence of women as a binding force in our social fabric. The quotes woven into the mural celebrate both individual strength and collective harmony, offering a vision of hope rooted in our shared past.

This mural is both a meditation on history and a call to action, encouraging viewers to consider how we can unite across divisions to create a more inclusive and supportive society. It is my hope that these presidential words will spark reflection, dialogue, and a renewed sense of possibility for the future.


public art is for everyone!

Providing unique experiences and making art accessible to ALL is a vital part of how to heal our communities. AMBI BOARDS are a wonderful outdoor activity for DRAWING BIG for all ages. For inquiries contact mikkelsendonna@gmail.com

Past Events:

O+ Kingston, NY 2019

“O+ empowers communities to take control of their collective wellbeing through the exchange of
art, music, and wellness.​” opositivefestival.org
”AMBI X” an interactive public art installation

Ambi Spectrums | Play for your freedom 2019
workshop for veterans

Veterans enjoyed a day of wellness at Squirrelwood Equine Sancutary. Perfect setting for Ambi Boards.
”AMBI SPECTRUMS” invites participants to get in touch with their inner rainbow through spontaneous symmetry drawing..

DUSKLIT Interactive Art Festival 2019 Sugar Loaf, NY

“…50+ contemporary artists from across the US and Canada transform the Seligmann Homestead into a landscape of immersive installations, interdisciplinary performances, and site-specific environments.”
AMBI SPECTRUMS: Exploring our inner ROYGBIV through SPONTANEOUS SYMMETRY drawing.

Ambiarts mural | beacon, NY 2018

This mural represents the light of the human spirit and celebrates the diversity of our community. These "ambi peeps" are all unique and represent all ages, sizes, shapes, religions, races, genders and sexual orientation. ambiarts mural, 8' x 92' Beacon, NY. Live performance in collaboration with Nathalie Jonas and Eleana Kouneli.

Pictured: “Ambi Grand” Played by Musician Jesse Stacken Spirit of Beacon Day Parade

Pictured: “Ambi Grand” Played by Musician Jesse Stacken Spirit of Beacon Day Parade


KEYS TO BEACON 2017/18

Keys to Beacon is a community project to promote access to the arts and music for all citizens. Pianos are installed in public spaces around the City of Beacon.”

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O+ POUGHKEEPSIE 2018

“O+ Empowers communities to take control of their collective well being through art, music and wellness.”