Every city has hidden stories—tales of resilience, culture, and triumph just waiting to be told on a bigger canvas. The Rust-O Spray It Forward program was born out of a drive to unlock those stories and put the power of self-expression right in the hands of artists and neighborhoods. With a mission to create 10 powerful murals across the country, the program is about more than paint—it's about voices, visions, and the transformation of community spirit.

The Heartbeat of Humboldt Park: Kicking Off at Battle Bandera

The very first stop on this national journey was close to home for Rust-Oleum with Humboldt Park, Chicago—a neighborhood alive with history and culture. And the mural location, Battle Bandera (an anti-violence boxing gym stands as a sanctuary for youth and a force for positive change), was the perfect spot for local artist Nikko Loncander (aka Ali Six) to amplify the powerful work happening inside those walls.

Enter Nikko Loncander (aka Ali Six): Championing Culture on Every Inch

The torchbearer for this mural was none other than Nikko Loncander, known throughout the street art world as Ali Six. With spray can in hand and a vision close to his heart, Ali Six set out to create more than just a mural—he created a beacon.

His design bursts with imagery celebrating Puerto Rican culture and Humboldt Park’s spirited sense of community. The bold colors, fluid motion, and joyful characters shimmer and dance across the boxing gym’s exterior, echoing the energy found inside. Every detail is a tribute: from the vibrant flag motifs to the expressions of strength and unity, the mural is a lively love letter to the people it represents.

Ali Six shared, “For me, it’s about making sure our story is larger than life—letting everyone know our pride, our struggles, and the beauty of our neighborhood. Art is power. When kids see themselves in these images, it lights a fire. That’s what this project is all about.”

Murals That Empower a Movement

The day of the mural’s unveiling, the block pulsed with energy. Neighbors poured in, some eager to try their hand with a Rust-O spray paint can, others just there to soak up the moment. Volunteers and gym members worked side by side, layering bursts of color, learning new spray painting techniques, and sharing stories of what the neighborhood means to them.

Friends caught up, strangers became collaborators, and the spirit of Puerto Rican pride echoed on every stroke.

Building a Legacy, One Wall at a Time

Spray It Forward isn’t just a series of murals—it’s the start of a movement. By dedicating walls as bold reminders of resilience and culture, the program empowers communities to take ownership of their spaces and their stories. The Humboldt Park mural is just the first chapter, but it’s already become a landmark, a gathering point, and a catalyst for hope.

As the program continues its tour—nine more murals, nine more neighborhoods, each with its own unique story—Rust-O’s vision is to create a wave of public art that inspires, unites, and uplifts. These collaborations turn empty walls into legacies; they give every community a voice that can’t be painted over.

If you’re ready to make your mark, keep an eye out. Rust-O Spray It Forward is only just beginning. The next story—maybe yours—is just a wall away.

For more on this incredible event, be sure to check out Up Magazine's coverage of the Battle Bandera mural and its inspiring impact on the Humboldt Park community here