“The Phoenix Tree” mural currently graces the grounds of Trum Field.

By Lexi O’Neil

A new year brings new appreciation for The Phoenix Tree mural on Trum Field playground. Originally commissioned to bring the Somerville community together, it reminds us that art is in the eye of the beholder. In the city known for great artistic expression, Somerville renews its glow on a favorite artist who is paving the way for their passions.

Crystal Burney, known professionally as Gray Sky Designs, is an artist who for over twenty-five years, has brought her passions to life in multiple cities, including her home of Somerville, Massachusetts. Her creative process begins when a client brings forth a vision they’d like her to breathe new life into, and it is here where new projects are born.

Her craft has been a driving force during her time in Somerville, having even left her mark in cities such as Cambridge, home to her favorite ramen shop, and Marblehead, home to Marblehead High School’s Magicians. When Crystal isn’t commissioning a painting, you can find her busy working at or painting the walls of Davis Square Donuts and Bagels while consulting about her future visions with her close friend, George.

Crystal is forthcoming with some of the challenges with her craft. She’s quick to discuss that her love for painting can cloud her judgment long enough to keep her preoccupied while constantly striving to achieve the intended goal for the client. She shares with us that her son helps to remind her of her worth and what her passion means to others, especially when it’s hard to meet herself in the middle of the road when projects pique her artful curiosity more than they’re intended to. It’s not easy when your income relies on your skill.

Crystal makes the life of an artist seem effortless, even when it’s difficult to let the small things go. Her work ranges from interior designs, like smaller-scale home improvement projects and welcoming nurseries for expecting families, and larger-scale projects, such as exterior work alike to Marblehead’s school mascot and Trum Field’s beloved tree.

A hard-working mother who strives constantly to meet customer expectations while perfecting the work/life balance in a saturated market, her humble nature and selfless acts make this artist unique among the crowd. When she isn’t working, time spent with her fourteen-year-old son, Hatcher, is her favorite. You can browse more of Crystal’s projects via her website: grayskydesigns.com.