BILOXI — The Gulf Coast Community Foundation recognized donors and unveiled an abstract piece of art representing its mission on Monday at the Ohr O’Keefe Museum of Art. The “Mural of Generosity” by local artist Gretchen David was created as part of the foundation’s Leave Your Mark fundraising and awareness campaign.

Ron Barnes, GCCF board president, said the organization decided to forego its annual gala in favor of the Leave Your Mark campaign in order to maximize donations with minimal expenses. During the eight-week campaign, GCCF has spotlighted individuals, groups and causes that have left their mark with assistance from the foundation.

“We have been proud to have our grants and donations make a visible difference in communities across the Gulf Coast, including the rebuilding of homes, neighborhood parks, day care and community centers, along with assisting thousands of residents with day-to-day basic needs and counseling,” said Barnes.

Now those marks will be given a physical representation in the mural. Each dollar of the over $30,000 raised will equate to one brush stroke painted on the mural by David. The piece is unified by a copper base with additional copper and aluminum components creating a three dimensional representation of the Coast. David adds each stroke to represent the marks left on the area by the foundation, its donors and partner organizations.

David said the piece is meant to be an artistic statement with elements that may become apparent over time or with closer inspection. It is meant to engage and inspire, she said. But, in the end, said David, all art is subject to interpretation.

The mural will hang temporarily at the museum and will probably become a traveling exhibit.