From a distance, this mural of a world map embedded in the United States appears to be flecked in arbitrary pastel shades. But look closely to decipher the allegory reflected in the statement (in English and Spanish) that accompanies the piece: "We are a Nation of Many Colors." Each brick has a distinct word or design, yet in collaboration it appears as one seamless object. The mural was painted in 2005 by volunteers from El Centro Latino. Alaska and Hawaii are hidden behind the creeping greenery.

(photographs taken near Lloyd and Main streets in Carrboro)