Symbolism, Imagery, Allegory
The mural symbolizes Trina. After all, it's her work, her colors, and her passion on display on the wall. We definitely want to consider, though, what Trina paints: Martin Luther King, Jr., Malcolm X, Harriet Tubman, and Rosa Parks. Each one of these African American leaders and heroes were victims of senseless violence, giving us a clue about what's going to happen to Trina.
But the mural also symbolizes Trina's life. Even though she's in the hospital, her art continues to give color and life to the school—like the leaders she's painted, her vibrancy and legacy live on. It kind of gives us hope that Trina may recover in some way and, if nothing else, makes it clear that she's left her mark.