Acrylic, tempura and collage on discarded protest poster 40” x 24” Portrayed as an older and wiser mythical cartoon figure, VELMA tells the story of the unsung hero—those who quietly change the world for the better without fanfare. Through layered textures, expressive color, and fragmented urban imagery, Scarpa transforms the figure into a symbol of empathy, resilience, and collective humanity. A layered portrait of resilience and compassion.  This mixed-media work channels Scarpa’s fusion of architecture, activism, and emotional storytelling.  Through raw textures, handwritten marks, and vivid drips of color, the piece transforms its subject into a symbol of empathy, memory, and collective humanity. The fragmented typography and urban collage aesthetic evoke both vulnerability and strength, reflecting Scarpa’s belief that art and design can inspire social connection and hope.