For forty years, Make-A-Wish Hudson Valley has quietly and powerfully changed lives across the region. Since its charter in 1986, the Tarrytown-based chapter has granted more than 3,400 wishes to children facing critical illness, each one a moment of light, strength, and possibility during unimaginably difficult times.
This year, as the organization celebrates its 40th anniversary, that spirit of hope has quite literally been painted into its headquarters.
In honor of the milestone, three Westchester-based artists, Marla Beth Enowitz, Jessica Maricevic, Ed.D., and Sandra Schustack joined forces to create a vibrant chalk mural installation at the Make-A-Wish Hudson Valley Wish House. Titled “Make-A-Wish Is… YOU,” the mural is more than an artwork. It is a statement.
It is a reminder that a wish is not just an event, it is a community.
“We are excited to welcome visitors to the Wish House as we celebrate 40 Years of Wishes in the Hudson Valley,” said Kristine Burton, President & CEO of Make-A-Wish Hudson Valley. “This milestone would not be possible without the support of our community partners… who help bring hope and joy to wish families throughout Westchester County.”
The trio of artists—affectionately dubbed “The Happy Muralists” share a belief that art should uplift, connect, and empower.
Marla Beth Enowitz, founder of Marla Beth Designs and known locally as the “Happy Art Artist of Westchester,” has built her creative identity around bold color and contagious positivity. From installations at Maria Fareri Children’s Hospital to commissions shipped nationwide, her work radiates warmth. Based in Rye, she also hosts children’s art celebrations in her studio, nurturing creativity in the next generation.
Jessica Maricevic, known professionally as The Artsy Doc, brings a layered, mixed-media sensibility rooted in empathy and storytelling. An educator as well as an artist, her pop art–inspired murals and installations span Manhattan, Brooklyn, and Westchester. Her work often supports philanthropic causes, blending visual energy with emotional depth.
Sandra Schustack “Sanj” rounds out the trio with a background in animation and award-winning production. Her art centers encouragement and confidence, using playful words, bold lines, and expressive color to help children (and adults) feel seen and supported.
Together, their styles merge into a mural that is joyful without being simplistic, vibrant without being overwhelming. The message is intentional: Make-A-Wish is not just an organization, it is every volunteer, every donor, every artist, every family who believes in possibility.
For the children who walk through the doors of the Wish House, the mural offers something immediate and tangible: a burst of light. A pause. A smile. A moment that feels expansive.
As Make-A-Wish Hudson Valley celebrates its 40th year with signature events including the Wish Ball in April, the Summer of Wishes kickoff in June featuring alumni spanning four decades, and the 20th Annual Walk for Wishes in October, the mural stands as a visual symbol of what the organization has always represented.
Hope.
In a county known for its talent, generosity, and strong sense of community, this collaboration feels fitting. Three artists. One mission. Forty years of wishes.
And a wall that now reminds everyone who enters: you are part of the story.