Rewind

Daniel Velez

Co-Presenters: Individual Presentation

College: College of Liberal Arts

Major: Fine Arts

Faculty Research Mentor: Carolyn Lambert

Abstract:

Rewind is a video project that reflects my experience growing up in Newark, shining a light on the city’s hidden artistic beauty. When I was younger, Newark felt small, just a collection of familiar streets and ordinary places. I didn’t realize then how much creative energy was quietly shaping the city. Over time, I began to notice the art woven into everyday life murals tucked between buildings, community projects breathing life into empty spaces, and local artists turning the ordinary into something extraordinary. That shift in perspective mirrors my own growth. I moved from a naïve, narrow view of the world to understanding that beauty often appears where you least expect it… if you’re willing to look.Through layered imagery and observational camera work, Rewind captures the city’s artistic heartbeat. It lingers in places people might overlook an alley, a side street, a worn building; revealing the creativity that flourishes there. By rewinding through these spaces, the video reflects on how our surroundings shape us and how, when we pay attention, we uncover stories waiting to be told. At its core, Rewind is an invitation to see Newark, and any place, with fresh eyes. It’s a tribute to the city’s artistic spirit and a personal reminder that even the most unexpected corners can hold something beautiful.