Celebrating 50 Years of Hip Hop

50 YEars of hip hop

Portland, Oregon

Located at NE Grand Ave & Halsey St., this new PSAA Community Art Project celebrates the 50 year anniversary of Hip Hop. This project came to life thanks to a team of incredibly talented PNW style writers and celebrates this milestone through one of Hip Hop’s most visible pillars – graffiti wildstyle art. The production also includes elements from all 5 Pillars of Hip Hop, including MCing/DJing, Breakdancing, and Knowledge.


Hip Hop is a groundbreaking genre that took the world by storm 50 years ago, reshaped our culture from coast-to-coast, and continues to reverberate throughout the world today. Hip Hop isn’t just music, breakdancing, or graffiti; it’s a voice for those unheard, a rhythm of defiance that continues to this day to captivate new generations and push new boundaries and breakthrough barriers. This year also brings another new milestone as Breaking (aka Breakdancing) is included at the Olympics for the first time.

Artist KANGO

Artist THEY DRIFT

““Hip Hop has always been there for me since a very young child. Kept me in a creative, competitive and grounded state of mind. Also kept me out of gangs and dealing which was also a heavy influence in my surroundings. I have met my very favorite people with the same goals and passion as I that I still build and develop with today. I can’t express enough about how powerful the lifestyle and culture can be for one person let alone worldwide.” - KANGO

As an artist, I am honored to be part of a project that commemorates over 50 years of hip hop. I selected Queen Latifah and Tupac as my subjects due to the profound influence they wielded not just within the realm of hip hop, but across broader cultural landscapes. Their commitment to amplifying their voices in the fight for social justice serves as a powerful inspiration for my own artistic journey.” - THEY DRIFT

“With this mural production, Portland Street Art Alliance wanted to honor the 50th year anniversary of the birth of Hip Hop. For us, it's not just about celebrating a groundbreaking new genre that took the world by storm, it is also about recognizing a movement that reshaped our culture from coast to coast and continues to reverberate throughout the world today. Hip Hop isn't just music, breakdancing, or graffiti; it's a voice for the voiceless, a resounding rhythm of defiance that continues to captivate new generations, push new boundaries and break barriers.

We hope that this mural in NE Portland celebrates the spirit of Hip Hop and stands as a vibrant tribute to the pioneers of Hip Hop. In painting this mural, we're not just commemorating the past; we're celebrating the enduring spirit of Hip Hop, a spirit of resilience, creativity, and most importantly passing down knowledge, and building a community of respect and unity. It's a reminder that art has the power to transcend barriers and inspire change. As you pass by the new mural, we hope it serves as a reminder of the stories of a movement that continues to shape our world, one rhyme, beat, and break at a time.” – PSAA Board of Directors

Thanks to all the artists who participated: GIVER, BRUE, THEY DRIFT, OTHER, KSRA, KANGO, DEPTHS, THRIVES, and ADJUST. With additional painting and organizing support from Hayden Senter, Galen Malcolm, and Jeremy Nichols. 

We would also like to thank project sponsors PacifiCorp, Metro, Miller Paint, and Montana Cans for recognizing the power and expression of this artform, and for supporting regional artists and creative freedom.

ADDITIONAL PHOTOS

PROJECT SPONSORS

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Ladies Up

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Artist Kyra Watkins getting started on her first mural in Portland, OR.

Artist Kyra Watkins getting started on her first mural in Portland, OR.

Portland Street Art Alliance’s Ladies Up Project brings rotating new murals to Portland and beyond, all designed and painted by female-identifying artists.

The first Ladies Up Mural Project is located at Morrison Place at 1401 SE Morrison St (along SE Alder St & SE 15th Ave). This mural project was made possible thanks to a partnership with the former property owner Killian Pacific, and current owner KOSS Real Estate Investments, along with sponsors Miller Paint and Metro Paint, and donations from neighborhood association residents.

The Ladies Up Project is an active rotating PSAA Community Art Project, where PSAA is provided curatorial control and artists are provided considerable open creative freedom in their work.

For this collaboration, PSAA chose a broad theme: a line-up of emerging female-identifying artists. Female/femme/non-binary artists are highly underrepresented when it comes to overall access to painting in public space. As a result of this gender inequity, not all perspectives and stories are being told in our artistic landscape. Street art is a very male-dominated culture, so PSAA has been working to create opportunities and safe spaces for female-identifying muralists to paint.

As with all Community Art Projects, these works of art will periodically rotate, to provide new and emerging female artists a chance to display their work and practice their skills. For the community, these projects provide fresh and exciting new work that people come back time and time again to see and enjoy.

MEET THE MURALISTS

SUMMER 2024

The first 2024 Ladies Up mural was painted by Seattle-based artist Stevie Shao. The mural, titled Nymph Spell, is a synthesis of Shao’s cultural symbolism and personal narrative, combining animal symbology and the inevitable turn of life’s seasons. A periodical cicada folds its wings post flight - right in front of an outdoor cat poised to strike. A traditional symbol of rebirth and summertime, the large wild insect is about to fall prey to a small domestic animal.

The second 2024 Ladies up mural was painted by Afghan-American artist Saphya Lones. Titled the The High Priestess & The Fool new mural is inspired by the traditional tarot cards, this piece represents the necessary combination of iterative play and wise intention while exploring (life, art, and otherwise). With elements such as the fig (referencing Sylvia Plath’s Bell Jar), and a hot dog (referencing nothing), the mural embodies being anti-solemn with serious intention.

SPRING 2022

The first piece along SE 15th Avenue was painted by Villatose is an interconnected wonder, with two women intertwined by hair and hands in a passionate embrace. The next work by Lynsee Sardell features a magic scene with open hands and soft colors popping atop rays of light. The third panel by Bernadette Little depicts a stunning stylized portrait in her signature style. The last mural is a beautiful tribute to a dearly departed friend, painted by Brenda DePriest.

WINTER 2021

In November of 2021, PSAA teamed up with the Independent Publishing & Resource Center (IPRC) to organize two more murals at Ladies Up by Laura Camila Medina and Angela Saenz. Laura is current working on their MFA at Yale School of Art. Angela Saenz originally from Omaha, NE creates paintings and drawings rooted in personal observation of the human experience.

SUMMER 2020

Along SE Alder Street, the original line-up of the Ladies Up murals painted during the height of the racial justice protests the Summer of 2020. Tatyana Ostepenko was born and raised in Soviet Ukraine and painted three Babushkas gazing out onto a rural Ukrainian landscape. Salomée is a bilingual designer with Algerian and Peruvian decent born in Switzerland who has went onto launch a successful mural career after painting this mural. Amaranta Colindres was born in Santa Ana El Salvador and raised in California and painted a powerful tiger using all spray paint. Isis Fisher born and raised in Hawaii painted a trippy pair of figures using only black and white. Kyra Watkins originally from Cincinnati, Ohio painted a man with a parrot on their shoulder and has went on to start a youth program mentoring foster kids in mural art. Sunny Beard is a tattooist and cancer thriver, originally from Reno, NV, who painted a detailed snake along with red carnations. Finally, N.O. Bonzo a Portland-based contemporary artist who is known for their feminine images and hard hitting political content.

WORK IN PROGRESS

“As an organization, Killian Pacific believes that fueling creative expression in our city leads to healthy vibrant communities. We strive to celebrate the arts in each of our projects and have been privileged to work with the PSAA team on many murals and installations throughout our portfolio. The “Ladies Up” mural project spearheaded by PSAA is one of our favorites to date, as we truly appreciate the intent to support local female-identifying artists in creating an all-women’s mural wall in the city of Portland. Additionally, we feel that in supporting artists during the unprecedented times we are experiencing today we are not only supporting individuals, but also providing beautiful, artistic moments of hope for everyone to enjoy. - Chelsea Rooklyn, Killian Pacific ”

INAUGURAL SPONSORS AND PARTNERS

The Central Eastside Mural District is funded, in part, by the Regional Arts & Culture Council, Prosper Portland, the Oregon Arts Commission, and the Central Eastside Industrial Council’s Central Eastside Together grant program. Additional support from Buckman Neighborhood community members; Dylan Huff and Katherine Kiely.

Capturing Portland's Charm

LADDS CIRCLE

LADDS ADDITION, Portland, Oregon

Portland has a new mural to add to its collection, at SE 20th & Hawthorne designed and painted by Portland-born and based muralist, Allison McClay. ‘Ladd’s Circle’ is a homage to the nearby neighborhood that celebrates its people, architecture, and unique charm, showing iconic Ladd’s Circle, blooming with colorful roses and being enjoyed by pedestrians.


This new landmark is dappled with so much detail that the viewer can find new things to see each time they pass by. ‘Ladd’s Circle’ features cyclists big and small, as a nod to the local community and the Ladd’s 500 Bike Ride, a skateboarder, two beloved dogs, a cat, a teddy bear, and the tiniest little bird. The architectural detail in the buildings is stunning as they glow with light. The entire piece is capped-off in a translucent yellow frame, mimicking stained glass. Karim, the 7-Eleven franchisee owner, is also featured in the mural.

Allison wanted to depict the charming feeling of wandering down an angled street and ending up at Ladd’s circle; a little unsure of which direction you are facing, but awed by fragrant rose gardens, stunning architecture, and the rich canopy of leaves above your head. The centerpiece tree is inspired by the American Elms that line the nearby streets, and the rich gold tones they turn in Autumn. The geometric details are a nod to the shape of the neighborhood itself, and the map that was once painted on this wall, before a car accident destroyed the wall in the ‘90s and it had to be rebuilt.

“I met so many community members while working on this. I appreciate everyone who stopped by to tell me stories about their lives and the history of the neighborhood. As a Portland native, it felt so nice to get to learn more about an area I’ve always loved. I even learned that I had family members who lived in Ladd’s Addition in the ‘60s. Thanks to everyone who helped make this such a lovely experience!” – Allison McClay

McClay’s background made her the perfect artist for PSAA’s latest mural created thanks to a grant from the City of Portland’s Public Environment Management Office (PEMO). This was PSAA’s first opportunity to work with Allison and we are so impressed with this beautiful new mural that welcomes all into the charming Ladd’s Addition neighborhood.

ABOUT ALLISON MCCLAY

Allison McClay attended California College of the Arts before moving back to her native Portland. She was excited for the opportunity to paint a mural in the area, as she lived in the nearby Hawthorne District when she first returned to Portland and passed by this 7-Eleven on a regular basis. 

Allison’s traditional style often invokes feelings of history and place. She especially excels at representing architecture and has completed an impressive series of historic murals in the small town of North Plains, Oregon just outside of Portland. 

ADDITIONAL PHOTOS

IN THE MEDIA

 

PDX Punk Mural

MAKING PORTLAND PUNK HISTORY

OLDTOWN, Portland, Oregon

A new full-building wrap mural has hit the streets of Portland, designed, and painted by Portland tattoo artist and illustrator, Notsik. Notsik moved to Portland from California determined to createtheir unique style of art which was a perfect match for this mural. Notsik incorporates a bold, limited palette, often using only black, red, and white in their artwork. The mural showcases an incredible amount of detail, from the patches on the back of the jacket to intricate tattoos hand-painted on the  arms of the punk rocker.


"It has been an incredible honor to be able to do a tribute for legendary PDX punk bands and themany venues and bars that made the punk scene thrive here.” – Notsik, MuralistProminently positioned in Old Town’s Ankeny Triangle, this pie-shaped building is within sight oficonic Portland punk cultural and historical locations. In these few blocks (and near SW Yamhill and 2nd) the heart of Portland’s punk culture in the 70’s and 80’s thrived.

The mural fully wraps the tiny building at 33 SW 3rd. Avenue, owned by longtime Portland real estateinvestor Jim Atwood, who also owns the building that is home to Dante’s, one of the last largePortland venues that consistently host punk and hardcore shows in town.

Extensive community outreach was completed by the PSAA team to help inform the design of themural. Leading the way, Caleb Ruecker reached out to over two dozen bands to ask for their blessing to be included in the artwork. Ruecker was born and raised in Portland and has always identified with the punk community.

“This mural is well deserved to the punk scene. For many decades of amazing musical talent, radvenues, raw style, great shops and incredible people. Thanks for everything and welcoming me in,even if I ride BMX.” – Caleb Ruecker, Community Member

While there was no way to include the full breadth of bands originating from Portland, we squeezedin as many as we could. Featured in patches on the back of a rocker’s jacket are: The ExplodingHearts, Sado Nation, Final Warning, The Procrastinators, Nightmares, Religious War, Cut Throat,Rotten Cadaver, Death Charge, Another State of Mind, and more.

Around the corner, another band line up appears, this time as buttons displayed on the front of amusician’s jacket. Included are: Defiance, Dead Moon, The Wipers, The Rats, Poison Idea, Pierced Arrows, The Jackals, The Riffs, Black Jack, Napalm Beach, Soda Pop Kids, Red Dons, All Out, Long Knife, The Bellicose Minds, and Antiworld.

“We feel honored to be included in the new mural representing the Portland Punk music scene, thanks to Portland Street Art Alliance for recognizing some of the bands, clubs and people who have been a part of making our city stand out in the worldwide music scene! “ – Mike Arrogant, Defiance

Also featured on one of the musicians are symbols of classic punk fashion, including a padlock andchain necklace, made famous by the infamous Sid Vicious of the Sex Pistols. Legend goes, ChrissieHynde of The Pretenders gifted Sid with the lock and chain, and Sid, being Sid, lost the keys andtherefore never took it off. There is no denying that British punk music had a big impact on Portland’sscene. Sten recorded that at first, Portland wanted to hear British-sounding punk. Along the jacketbrim, three safety pins are fastened. Safety pins, while serving a practical purpose of holding thingstogether, became associated with punk in the UK in the late 1970s. Some claim the look wasoriginally taken originally from Richard Hell (of Neon Boys, Television, Heartbreakers, Richard Hell &the Voidoids), whose style British punks emulated.

The mural also features much-loved places such as record stores, punk clothing shops, musicvenues, recording studios, etc. On the ‘Places 2 Go’ list, the following are featured: Another State ofMind (currently still in business at SE 34th and Hawthorne), The Satyricon, Meow Meow, Club 21,EJs, Paris Theatre, Laluna, X Ray Cafe, Berbati’s Pan, Ozone Records, Twilight Cafe, DiscourageRecords, 2nd Avenue Records (currently still in business at 400 SW 2nd Ave), Black WaterRecording Studio, X House, Revenge, Second Foundation, Clockwork Joe’s, New Arts Center,Captain Whizeagle’s, Renaissance Records, Mildred’s Palace, Wave Studio, New Ritz Disco,Euphoria, and Noize Magazine.

Prominently featured in the mural is the iconic Portland punk fashion shop, Another State of Mind.Still operating today, the shop opened its doors in 1994 – providing a place for “local studs andspikes youth.” First in Old Town and now on SE Hawthorne Blvd., Another State of Mind is ownedand operated by Connie Wallace and Frank Schaefer. It’s a classic mom-and-pop shop specializing in traditional 80’s gear, rebellion wear, memorabilia, accessories, and more. As in the early 90’s, Another State of Mind continues to be a meeting place for the PDX punk community today.

“PSAA is honored to be a part of this special mural project celebrating our distinct character andlegacy in the punk music scene. As a fan, I have been dreaming of painting this mural for manyyears now, and am excited to finally see it come alive! We hope it serves as a reminder that our DIYand edginess as a city has a long history and roots in our early punk culture. We have always beentesting limits, experimenting, and going against the normative grain as a city.”– Tiffany Conklin, PSAA Executive Director

This mural project was generously sponsored by a grant from the City of Portland’s PublicEnvironment Management Office (PEMO). Paint discounts were provided by Miller Paint. Sign painting across the top of the building for the property owner was completed by artist and PSAA Site Manager, Hayden Senter.

A Brief Portland Punk History

In the 1970s and 80s, Portland was the epicenter of one of the most thriving hardcore andexperimental punk rock scenes in the Pacific Northwest, if not the country. This explosion of newsounds reflected the gritty and radical culture of the city. Portland’s thriving punk scene was due inpart to its fluid and non-genre-specific nature, making it accessible and attractive to a newgeneration of musicians and fans. In Mark Sten’s book All Ages: The Rise and Fall of PortlandPunk Rock 1977-1981 (published in 2015), he explains the rise of punk culture in Portland and the conditions of the time:

“By 1977, Portland was starting to take its current shape. Portland had just finished outgrowing its constricting small town Republican outlook, and it was turning into an urban magnet for all kinds of new lifestyle visionaries: potheads, homosexuals, vegetarians, topless dancers, etc. With no conservative power structure left, local punk was born.

”The Wipers were one of the first major bands out of Portland, with their raw and gritty new sound, influencing everyone from Nirvana to No Age. In a 1993 interview with Kurt Cobain, he was asked ifthere was a Seattle scene or if this was all a myth, in reference to the music of time. Cobain replied“Yea, but in Portland. It started with The Wipers in 1977. It’s a real dirty, grungy place.” According toSten, the first bands to take the stage were King Bee and Noize in 1977, producing a few dozenshows and bringing in out-of-town punk bands. King Bee notoriously played a few early shows atVernonia High School, including at their Senior Prom.

Sten continues to explain that: “Conflict with Portland’s newly dominant liberal ethos provided anideal stimulus for post-modern creative tension, during a period when geographic isolation gave theemerging punk scene room to breathe. American punk was streamlined by large mass audiences ina few metropolitan centers. In contrast, punk rock in Portland was at liberty to set its own standardsand follow its own pace. At the beginning of 1978, overlapping clusters reached critical mass andfused into a single contentious community that turned itself into an efficient production cartel.”

Even the PDX pups dig the PDX Punk mural! Credit: @Rangerstay

Later, Sten described some of the unique characteristics of Portland’s scene. Portland’s punk scenewas unanimously anti-racist and welcoming of the queer community. In downtown, some of the firstvenues to host punk music were Mildred’s Place and Second Foundation. Mildred’s Palace was anall-ages queer-friendly disco owned and operated by Lanny Swerdlow. Swerdlow kept similar clubsgoing for decades, including an earlier one called Second Foundation at 258 SW Alder. Lanny wasahead of his time. Lanny ran all his clubs as refuges where ‘lonesome gays’ of every age were encouraged to mingle with alienated minors of all sexual persuasions.


Women also played an important role in Portland’s punk scene. Sten noted that “It was women inPortland who were doing the intensive research into punk’s evolving fashions in 1977, keeping up byscrutinizing the newest British magazines for any late-breaking developments. Piercings were rare,while tattoos were still novel and slightly exotic. Flannel was more common than leather because itwas cheaper.”

Notable women in the early scene included Andrea Lafayette who helped get Mildred’s Palace started and DeeDee Morin from the bands Hazel Dell and TerrorWrist.Portland’s historical punk scene is emblematic of our city and culture today. Even though the city has morphed and changed in recent years, Portland still is on the cutting edge of culture-making, doingthings ourselves, and in our own unique way. It is this pioneering spirit that continues to draw peopleto this unique gem of a city, and we hope, will continue to do so for years to come.

MURAL UNVEILING

On Sunday June 30th, 2024, Portland punks from near and far came together for the unveiling of the mural and an after-party gathering and performance by Deathcharge, at the iconic Star Theater inOld Town. In attendance were Mike Arrogant from Defiance, Mira Sonnleitner from The Bellicose Minds, David Corboy from The Jackals and Sado-Nation, Tony Mengis from The Riffs, Connie Wallace and Frank Shafer co-owners of Another State of Mind, and Sandy from the Future Boutique. After the unveiling at the mural wall, Deathcharge played at Star Theater to celebrate the mural.

ADDITIONAL PHOTOS



CEIC Avenue of Murals

CENTRAL EAST SIDE AVENUE OF MURALS

Portland, Oregon

Native Plant Art Column by Jeremy Nichols

The Central Eastside Industrial Council (CEIC) partnered with PSAA to extend our Viaduct Arts Initiative, to create an ‘Avenue of Murals’ stretching from the Eastbank Esplanade to 2nd Ave along Madison Ave.

Viaduct Arts & Avenue of Murals are inspired by the creative artistry already occurring under bridges. These partner initiatives aim to infuse vibrancy into the often-overlooked spaces beneath bridges. This multi-partner effort has a central mission: to use public art to revitalize and invigorate our shared public spaces.

In the spring of 2024, muralists Jeremy Nichols and Devin Finely wrapped 11 columns under the Hawthorne Bridge (near the esplanade). Jeremy completed 5 murals with vibrant art honoring the Central Eastside’s historic role as a center for fruit & vegetable import and sale, and the natural flora & fauna of the river. A final column celebrates outdoor recreation in the Willamette River and advocacy work of the non-profit The Human Access Project.

Devin Finely’s 5 CEIC-sponsored columns honor the historic shipping and rail that made the Central Eastside an economic engine in the 20th century, S.T.E.A.M. education initiatives from OMSI, the USS Blueback submarine, and the makers and tradespeople that have long worked in this thriving Industrial District. An additional column was sponsored by our friends and business partners at Killian Pacific. This pillar celebrates the musicians that have come to define the district today, and recognizes all the hardworking bands that turned old warehouses into practice and recording spaces and the DIY nature of Portland’s creative scene.

PSAA’s larger Viaducts Arts Column Initiative (Phase 1) kicked off in fall 2023 with murals that honored the historic Lovejoy Columns, the Portland Rose Festival’s Dragon Boats, and Ground Score Association.

"Thanks to almost a decade of hard work by various organizations, the dream of painting the bridge viaduct columns in the Central Eastside has become a reality. PSAA is incredibly thankful for our project partners and all the artists who have contributed so far. We also would like to acknowledge the support of the Ground Score Association and their assistance with wall preparation and mural base coat paint. We hope these murals become pillars of the industrial district, bridging its past, present, and future. A symbol of what makes this such a unique and fun place to work and play.” – Tiffany Conklin, Executive Director, PSAA

Steam Education Art Column by Devin Finley

"We are surrounded by incredible people doing transformative work every day. Inspired by the artists already committed to this project, we saw an opportunity to expand this effort significantly. As the District's advocate for a prosperous and vibrant community, we leveraged significant funding from Prosper Portland's Community Livability Grant, enabling us to help transform the Hawthorne viaduct into the 'Avenue of Murals.' We hope visitors and locals will experience this creative corridor and then explore Central Eastside’s bustling business district.” – Carolyne Holcomb, Executive Director of Central Eastside Together.

Phase 2 Project Sponsors: Central Eastside Industrial Council, Prosper Portland, Killian Pacific, Multnomah County Transportation Division Bridges, Ground Score Association, RACC. NorthRim, Miller Paint, Star Rentals, and Montana Cans.

JEREMY NICHOLS COLUMNS

DEVIN FINLEY MURALS

IN THE MEDIA

KGW Story

Art You Can Touch!

A MURAL That arouses the senses

TOLEDO, Oregon

Toledo’s sensory mural with artist Emma Berger

Oregon Artist Emma Berger has created a delightful new mural for the City of Toledo. It is a special ‘Sensory or Tactile’ Mural, with textured 3D elements that can be seen, as well as touched. The mural adorns Toledo’s Public Library and highlights the natural beauty of Toledo and the surrounding area. The mural features the Yaquina River, trees and plants and local wildlife including a heron, harbor seal, salmon, and a perfectly perched goldfinch.  

To prepare for the mural, Emma sketched out different elements in mortar and carefully crafted texture for certain objects. For the leaves, Emma took casts of real native plants from the Toledo area and transferred them to the wall. Other tactile elements include rocks along the shore, bark on trees, fuzzy blooms on flowers, and the feathers of a heron.

“For this mural, I took inspiration from the Yaquina River that stretches between Toledo and Newport, Oregon. It is a picturesque stretch of landscape, lush with wildlife. The plants and animals pictured are all native to the area or inspired from native plants. I like to think it’s a view of a perfect moment on the river. This mural is also a sensory mural, meaning I incorporated 3D elements so that the library patrons and children who visit can feel the rocks, the tree bark, and the imprints of plants.” – Emma Berger, Muralist

This mural is part of PSAA’s larger regional initiative to bring more public art to cities and small towns across Oregon. Thank you Art Toledo and the City of Toledo Oregon for this opportunity. 

“Bringing a tactile mural to rural communities fosters connection, inclusivity, and pride. It allows everyone, including those with visual impairments, to engage with art personally and immersively. Art Toledo hopes this project can strengthen community bonds and ensure that the joy of art is accessible to all. It's a testament to art's transformative power, honoring the character of the community.” – Lisa Figueroa, Art Toldeo

ABOUT EMMA BERGER

Born on the Northern California coast, Artist Emma Berger attended Pratt Institute in Brooklyn, New York. After leaving the west coast for school, Emma decided to locate in Portland, Oregon. 

Emma is an illustrator, tattoo artist, and muralist who also has done set design and backgrounds for stop animation movies with famous Laika Studios in Portland. She has created multiple murals around the Portland area and enjoys painting imaginary gardens and other leafy friends.

ABOUT ART TOLEDO

The City of Toledo, Oregon has recently launched the Arts Revitalization of Toledo (ART) initiative. The goals for this initiative are to energize Main Street and the business district with an art-centric focus and to celebrate our City’s industry and history – to the end of enticing more visitors from the coast to travel the eight miles east to experience Toledo, as well as engaging and energizing local residents.

ART Committee members include: the Timbers Restaurant and Lounge; Crow’s Nest Gallery; Port of Toledo; the Economic Development Alliance of Lincoln County; Yaquina Pacific Railroad Historical Society; Yaquina River Museum of Art; Oregon Coast Visitors Association, local artists; Toledo High School; Bank of the West, members of the community, and more.

Celebrating 30 Years of Care

MIDTOWN BEER GARDEN MURAL

Portland, Oregon

A colorful mural graces the Midtown Beer Garden in downtown Portland. Commissioned by CareOregon in celebration of their 30th year “making healthcare work for absolutely everyone.” This uplifting mural features a collection of characters enjoying a sunny day in the Rose City. 

Springing from the whimsical mind of illustrator Jax Ko, the mural is a celebratory and playful depiction of diverse Portlanders thriving in our green city. Nestled amongst the food carts below, larger-than-life figures bustle through an imaginative landscape where everything is alive: a field of flower friends, a giant dog (based on Jax’s tiny 8-pound pup), cascading cherry blossoms with cheerful faces, and two iconic Portland bridges donned with fancy footwear—naturally.

“This was by far my largest project to date; hundreds of hours painting, 3-stories of scaffolding, lots of lessons learned. I really enjoyed my time working at the Midtown Beer Garden. I got to know quite a few of the cart owners, and it became our daily ritual of chit chatting, having lunch, touring the mural site, and being in a community. During this incredibly hard time in the world, it brought me comfort to be in a diverse community and it makes me so proud to represent that, large-scale; in the heart of downtown Portland. I hope that the mural uplifts, inspires, delights, and reflects the hope I have for our city to continue to equitably embrace diverse voices and representation.” - Jax Ko, Muralist

This project was our first mural commission with Jax Ko and they did a stellar job! It was amazing to watch Jax “go big” and to see such a skilled group of assistants come together to complete this project. PSAA hopes that this new piece of public art makes people smile and invites them to take a moment to enjoy and appreciate all the fun, relaxing, and beautiful things downtown Portland and Oregon has to offer.

PSAA was honored to work with CareOregon, the Midtown Beer Garden, Northwest Scaffold, and our friends at Hail Creative on this public art project in downtown Portland. We were delighted to partner with this property owner as well, as they have been longtime supporters of PSAA’s Community Art Projects.

UNVEILING CEREMONY

Muralist Jax Ko speaking at the unveiling of their mural at the Midtown Beer Garden in Downtown Portland.

In spring of 2024 an unveiling event took place at the Midtown Beer Garden. The event included a dedication by CareOregon, and speeches by PSAA’s Executive Director Tiffany Conklin, and Muralist Jax Ko.

ABOUT THE ARTIST

Jax Ko is a Portland-based Illustrator, Muralist, and Professional Crybaby. Their distinctive illustrations reflect their personal style: cheeky, expressive, and vibrant. With a focus on reimagining AAPI representation, they draw inspiration from their own experiences as a bicultural American-born Korean raised by a single mother in Southern California. They use their unique perspective to create playful characters that feel like specific individuals rather than broad representations of groups. They have worked with ACLU Oregon, Portland Mercury, Willamette Week, Prosper Portland, Portland Trail Blazers, and a slew of independent businesses.

ADDITIONAL PHOTOS

Extending A Helping Hand

SUPPORTED GROWTH

Portland, Oregon

Supportive Growth, by Daren Todd

Titled Supported Growth, this new mural at Rockwood Boys & Girls Club is a vibrant tribute to the power of community and emotional support. It depicts a young adult uplifted by their peers and adults, illustrating the journey of growing, learning emotional intelligence, and spreading love. Created with input from the youth at the Boys and Girls Club and reflecting Daren’s personal experiences as a queer, trans young adult confronting mental health challenges, this artwork resonates deeply with themes of inclusion and empowerment. The mural is part of a statewide campaign by CareOregon, a non-profit that helps Oregonians access free physical, dental, mental health care and prescription drug coverage.

“The design's bold, colorful and graphic style is meant to inspire both young people and adults, evoking feelings of positivity and communal support. It also honors the memory of my beloved sibling, with a hopeful message for those facing tough times to seek help and connect with others. Through this mural, the message is clear: You are not alone, and together, we can reach new heights. Working on Supported Growth was a wonderful experience of ideation, revision and production that resulted in a final mural I am so proud of. I really enjoyed having so much guidance and input from the youth of Rockwood’s Nightscape Teen Program and the sponsors of the project -- as a mural artist it is so helpful to execute with a clear vision, and this team truly provided quality feedback and guidance that led us to a great final product.” - Daren Todd

Murals have the power to foster greater understanding, compassion, and sense of empathy in our communities. We hope that having this large-scale artwork up at the Boys and Girls Club will serve as a visual reminder that mental health is an essential part of our individual and collective well-being. With help and guidance from Daren, the Boys and Girls Club youth contributed to the design development, helped paint, and really saw the mural come to life before their eyes each time they came back to the club.

UNVEILING CEREMONY

Muralist Daren Todd speaking at the unveiling of Supported Growth at the Rockwood Boys and Girls Club.

In spring of 2024 an unveiling event took place at the Rockwood Boys and Girls Club. The event included a dedication from CEO, Terry Johnson; CareOregon’s Chief of Staff, and speakers Jeremiah Rigsby and Muralist Daren Todd. The teens of the Nightscape youth program also presented Daren with ‘thank you’ art.

ABOUT THE ARTIST

Daren Todd identifies as a Black, queer, transgender artist, muralist and arts educator based in Portland, OR. Daren is the founder of Art Larger Than Me, a thriving creative firm focused on community engagement, teaching, and the creation of captivating public art works, installations, and private commissions. Daren's unique artistic style blends abstract expressionism and graphic representation, resulting in cohesive and vibrant pieces, often on a larger scale. His work captures the essence of the communities and identities he resides in, consistently showcasing his inner monologue of experience and emotion.

ADDITIONAL PHOTOS

Everyone is Welcome Here

EVERYONE IS WELCOME HERE

MEDFORD, Oregon

Main Mural Wall in Downtown Medford Oregon

As part of CareOregon’s statewide mental health awareness campaign, PSAA teamed up with Mexican-American Muralist Casillas Oliver (a.k.a. Oliver Casillas) to produce a large new mural in the heart of downtown Medford, Oregon. This marked PSAA’s first mural project outside of the Portland Metro area in 2024, expanding our regional initiative to bring more public art to cities and small towns across Oregon. 

Working in conjunction with Jackson County Connect, a part of the CareOregon family, Casillas crafted a beautiful mural intended to break down stigma regarding mental healthcare. The mural graces the walls of the OnTrack Rogue Valley, a Medford non-profit organization that provides comprehensive behavioral health treatment for substance use and mental health conditions. 

The mural is a vivid representation of the essence of Southern Oregon, capturing its spirit and values through a blend of natural and cultural elements. The main panel, facing southwest, portrays a harmonious scene featuring three key components. Nestled in the background are the lively Rogue River Gorge Falls, symbolizing the lifeblood of the Rogue Valley and its inhabitants. Transitioning forward, a thriving pear orchard emerges, symbolizing the fruitful labor of the land and its people. This symbolism is further enriched by the presence of the Western Meadowlark, Oregon's state bird, poised for flight - an embodiment of resilience, hard work, and the pursuit of dreams. 

In the connecting section facing southeast, a dual narrative unfolds. At the backdrop stands a majestic mountain, representing Oregonian essence and the endless possibilities that lie ahead. In the foreground, the phrase "Everyone is Welcome Here" resonates, reflecting the open-mindedness and diversity of Southern Oregon's culture. This sentiment culminates with the imagery of the Swallowtail Butterfly, a native Oregon species, symbolizing growth, transformation, and the beauty of evolution. 

Through a careful curation of regional symbols and themes, this mural aims to inspire a sense of flight, freedom, and triumph, forging a profound connection with the Medford community and the soul of Southern Oregon. It serves as a beacon of unity and pride, celebrating the unique tapestry of the region while fostering a shared sense of belonging and aspiration.

A huge thank you to Oliver Casillas, Raul Casillas, Aldo, Galen Malcolm, Jessica Malcolm, Hail Advertising, CareOregon, Jackson County Connect, Star Rentals, and OnTrack Rogue Valley, specifically Gena Satori.

A very special thanks to videographer Chris Janisch at Whetstone Creative Agency for the beautiful drone footage and video.  

Video courtesy Chris Janisch at Whetstone Creative Agency

Nueva Esperanza

NUEVA ESPERANZA

HILLSBORO, Oregon

Exterior Mural “Nueva Esperanza” with artist Jose Solis

PSAA helped create an indoor and an outdoor mural celebrating Bienestar’s newest development Nueva Esperanza. Bienestar Oregon is a non-profit that builds housing, hope, and community for the well being of Latinx communities, immigrants, and all families in need. They provide affordable housing as well as an array of services to the community including youth programming.

Bienestar selected acclaimed Portland muralist Jose Solis to create two murals that reflected the community and its surroundings. 

“Painting these murals was a very rewarding experience with residents approaching me with a smile and thanking me for doing the painting.” - Jose Solis

The exterior mural is titled ‘Nueva Esperanza’ and captures a beautiful scene with stunning depth. The piece features a Latinx family standing in a field of wildflowers looking out over the Coast Range, draped by a rainbow. Also in the scene are two hummingbirds, a symbolic bird in Mexican culture. Spotting a hummingbird signals that challenging times are over and healing can begin. To others, these tiny fliers are an inspiring sign of hope and good luck.

‘A New Day’ Interior Mural

Inside the main office you will find the mural ‘A New Day.’ This mural glows with warmth and a scene of community. On the left side is a scene with children of many backgrounds playing in a field at sunset. A toucan, native to Central America and South America, can be found in one of the two large trees that are located at each side of the mural. Another culturally significant bird, the Resplendent Quetzal, is seen in all its splendor, spreading its long tail and wings while flying off into the sunset.

As needs and demographics have changed, Bienestar has expanded their scope to assist other immigrant communities in need, including a large group of Somali that have immigrated to the Hillsboro area. Representing this new group of immigrants, a mother can be seen pushing her daughter on a swing in the tree on the right. 

Mural Unveiling AND COmmunity celebration

On Friday May 10, 2024 Bienestar unveiled their latest affordable living community Nueva Esperanza. Located in the heart of Hillsboro, the community has housing for 150 families right along the MAX Line and next to Hidden Creek Park. The unveiling celebration featured speakers about the project including Hillsboro Mayor Steve Callaway, and a local resident who told the story of the pride he felt to be able to provide his family with a home and how his daughter finally got her own room and her first pet, a cat.

La Casa Rosa

LIFE IN BLOOM AT LA CASA ROSA

OREGON CITY, Oregon

Artist Devin Finley was hard at work this winter installing designs at La Casa Rosa, the Community Center at Las Flores, a new affordable housing development complex in Oregon City, Oregon.

Across the exterior and breezeway of the Community Center, Devin was tasked with installing a beautiful set of designs created by Vitor Bastos. Vitor is the design strategist that coordinated the creative teams working on the housing project around three pillars: Home, Pride and Play. Focused on the sense of pride, the breezeway mural acts as an icon for the community. The leaves in the design are an extension of the wallpaper inside the building, the exaggerated proportions to invoke the feeling of a symbol for the community and promote relationship between the exterior and interior, welcoming people in. 

“We have been thrilled to be a part of this wonderful community project with many creative minds thinking collaboratively to make something really beautiful.” – PeroDesign

“I felt very honored to be selected to install this artwork knowing that they trusted me to somewhat represent them as an artist. This was a large project with lots of graphic details.” – Devin Finley

“The collective dedication on this project was unique and inspiring! Seeing the mural come to life though the work of Devin was priceless, I’m still at awe." – Vitor Bastos.

The Community Center features a communal gathering space and includes onsite services from non-profits such as Hacienda CDC.

ABOUT PERODESIGN
PeroDesign is a design team that offers full service art consulting and project management for commercial spaces and new construction. They source art from a large network of artists and partner with local organizations, architects, and designers to create transformative artful experiences. 

ABOUT VITOR BASTOS
Vitor Bastos is a creative facilitator and design strategist that empowers in-house talent and outsourced artists. Vitor specializes in cohesive identities that go above and beyond. Connecting creative minds to each other and to the culture around them towards a common goal.

ADDITIONAL PHOTOS

FULL MURAL Video

Ode To Old Town

ODE TO OLD TOWN

OLD TOWN, Portland, Oregon

The Chevron gas station at SW 4th and Burnside in Old Town has been transformed from drab brick to a vibrant mural collage celebrating Portland’s downtown nightlife, past and present. Muralist, Campographic, stitched together multiple murals that wrap around the entire building. Graphic elements help tie each panel together to create one cohesive piece.

The first mural is a tribute to Portland’s drag icon, Darcelle XV (Walter Cole). Darcelle was the owner of the Darcelle XV Showplace; the oldest continuously running cabaret in the U.S. Darcelle is in the Guinness World Records for being the oldest working drag queen. The venue’s ability to welcome and educate, combined with its authentic celebration of drag culture, contributed to a cultural shift in the acceptance of gay rights & drag performance across the country. Darcelle passed away in 2023 at age 92, having performed her last show just a few days before. But the show must go on! The Showplace is a protected historic site and living piece of Portland history.

The back of the building features a series of collaged murals highlighting our vibrant club scene. The first two murals are an homage to Portland’s jazz scene. The first features the musician Christian Scott aTunde Adjuah playing at The Jack London, a basement jazz club in Old Town and a dancer onstage at the beloved Portland jazz institution, Jimmy Mak’s (1996-2016). The next series of murals highlight Mary’s Club. Mary’s started as a piano bar in the 30’s and has been a strip club since 1954, making it one of the oldest in the U.S. The last panel features the Portland skyline with the sun setting behind the West Hills. The sunset afterglow fades into the green glow of the dance floor, as a record spins in the foreground. A nod to the entrance of TUBE, a popular dance club, frames the wall. 

The final section is a tribute to the legendary Satyricon, the longest running punk club in the west, often called the “CBGB of the West Coast.” Satyricon was founded by George Touhouliotis, a taxi driver who acquired Marlena's Tavern in 1983. It operated from 1984 to 2010 and was notorious for being a gritty and wild venue. Steve Carder, a regular, described Satyricon as a “judgment-free place” and “a cool family of weirdos.” Satyricon regrettably closed its doors forever in 2010 and the building was demolished a year later in 2011. 

Campographic’s incredible collage of Portland’s legendary nightlife is a tribute to our creative energies and these special places, where we come together to unwind, party, find community, and be our true ourselves.  

Mural Titles:

“That’s No Lady, That’s Darcelle!” - Darcelle Mural
“Happy Hour,” “Mak & Jack” - Jimmy Mak’s and Jack London Jazz Clubs
“Heavy Glow,” “At The Rack,” “TIP$$$” - Mary’s Club Murals
 “Good Times Portland” - Portland Dance Club and TUBE  Murals 
“Madness & Glory” - Satyricon Mural

ARTIST STATEMENT

“For my debut commission from PSAA, I wanted to highlight Portland’s nightlife culture in a series of murals for Chevron. There is a lot of history here, with some venues still in operation all this time and others that have shuttered for good. In an ever changing city, I felt it was important to recognize some of the unique scenes that have put Portland on the map and to pay tribute to those no longer here. The project has a slight “Choose Your Own Adventure” feel to it with an aesthetic nodding to the torn up and layered posters advertising events around town. This coupled with layered colors and textures creates an atmosphere of expressive energy as you make your way around the walls. The color palette was intended to embody heavy contrast, dark tones and bright colors to pop under the awning lights of the station at night where the images come alive.” – Campographic

FULL MURAL Video

MEDIA COVERAGE

ADDITIONAL PHOTOS

Small Deeds Have Big Impacts

It can’t rain all the time

Portland, Oregon

A large new mural graces the back of the Broadway Grill & Brewery in NE Portland’s Sullivan’s Gulch neighborhood. Titled It Can't Rain All The Time, this narrative work springs from the beautiful mind of comic book author and muralist, Damon Smyth. Native to the Portland area, Damon wanted to create a mural for all Portlanders. With this wall, Damon chose to tell a touching story about the marginalized members of our community and how tiny acts of kindness can make all the difference.

“When PSAA asked if I would be interested in working with them to create a mural on the back of Broadway Grill & Brewery for the community, I was very excited,” says Smyth. “The opportunity to have full creative control when designing a mural doesn't happen often, so I wanted to take the chance to create something meaningful that would make people think. There is an overwhelming amount of negativity everywhere these days, so I wanted to combat that with something positive for anyone who might need it. I believe empathy is one of, if not our greatest attributes, but sadly kindness doesn't trend as easily. This was my opportunity to put kindness front and center.” 

As part of his design process Damon Smyth took an empathetic approach to creating his mural. Throughout the design drafts, Smyth tried to put himself in other people’s shoes and asked himself tough questions. Have you ever been surrounded by people but never felt more alone? Have you ever worked tirelessly for so long with no positive results that you just wanted to give up? What if, at that time, a stranger showed you compassion and helped you through it, do you think your path would change? 

Backed by his extensive experience creating graphic novels, Damon aimed to tell a story that would resonate with people of all backgrounds and inspire our community to be kind to one another. He opted to use spray paint for this project because of the energy and texture that it provides, as well as a way to challenge himself. The colors in the mural are trauma-informed and meant to be calming to the viewer. Smyth limited his palette to give the mural a more comic book feel and to keep the tone consistent. 

During the creation of It Can't Rain All The Time, many community members (housed and unhoused) spoke with Damon about the work-in-progress – some of them even getting emotional. Creating this mural gave Damon the chance to connect with the community and see firsthand the effects of putting a positive message in a public space.

“One day, while I was setting up, I had a community member approach me with tear-filled eyes saying the main character looked just like someone they had known and how happy they were for this mural being created. These touching moments are exactly what this mural was intended for and the reason why I create the work I do. I will always fight for kindness and empathy in our community.” – Damon Smyth, Muralist  

PUBLIC MURAL UNVEILING

It Can’t Rain All The Time Mural Unveiling, 2024.

A public unveiling of the mural was held in February 2024. Hosted by the Lloyd EcoDistrict and Northeast Broadway Business Association, the unveiling event helped kick off the Lloyd Light It Up dance party and bike ride, which is part of the Portland Winter Light Festival. The mural will is permanently fully illuminated for all to see and day and night.

COMMUNITY SUPPORT 

This mural was organized by the Portland Street Art Alliance (PSAA). It was funded thanks to a large team of supporters: the owner of Broadway Grill & Brewery, a donation from NE Broadway Business Association (NEBBA), and grants from METRO and the City of Portland’s Public Environment Management Office (PEMO).

“The Public Environment Management Office is proud of the stunning new mural on NE Broadway, an exciting addition to the neighborhood. The project was made possible through collaboration with neighborhood groups, the Portland Street Art Alliance, and artist Damon Smyth. PEMO greatly appreciates PSAA’s expertise in creating memorable art for our urban environment and looks forward to continuing the collaboration on future projects.” – Elizabeth O’Malley, City of Portland

“This beautiful, bright mural by local artist Damon Smyth exemplifies the hope we all share for the future of the Northeast Broadway Business District. The mural’s message of community and kindness reminds us of our role in improving Portland’s urban neighborhoods through simple acts of compassion toward others. The mural beautifies a vacant lot in the heart of our busy business district, creating the perfect spot to host community events, such as festivals, farmer’s markets, and local craft fairs. The Northeast Broadway Business Association is excited to celebrate with Portlanders beneath this magnificent mural in 2024.”  – Sarah Drescher, NEBBA President

"As a native Portlander, I'm honored to be able to support local artists who are lifting up the community through their work. My hope is that this mural brings not only beauty to the neighborhood, but also a sense of camaraderie to the business district. We're looking forward to more events in our shared space that bring everyone together. Thanks to PSAA for their hard work that secured the majority of the funding for this project and other murals that can be seen throughout our city. These community efforts exhibit the best that Portland has to offer – great food, great art, and great people." – Shelly Bigley, Owner, Broadway Grill & Brewery

ADDITIONAL PHOTOS

Inaugural Viaduct Arts Column Murals

VIADUCT ARTS COLUMN MURALS

CENTRAL EASTSIDE MURAL DISTRICT

 In the fall of 2023, PSAA launched the Viaduct Arts Column Mural Initiative in the Central Eastside. PSAA hired local Portland muralist Hayden Senter to design and paint four inaugural viaduct column murals honoring uniquely Portland institutions at SE Madison & Water Avenue, under the Hawthorne Bridge. The first two columns are the highlight of phase 1 of the Viaduct Arts Column Mural Initiative and pay homage to Portland’s original art columns, the 1940’s era Lovejoy Columns by Tom Stefopoulos. 

The third art column celebrates Portland Rose Festival Foundation’s renowned dragon boat races. The final column shares the story of Ground Score Association, Portland’s democratic worker association of dumpster divers, canners, and waste pickers. 

With grant support from Travel Portland and a donation from NorthRim, PSAA kicked off the Viaduct Arts Column Mural Initiative with coordination and support from project partners: the Regional Arts & Culture Council (RACC), the Central Eastside Industrial Council (CEIC), and Multnomah County’s Transportation Bridge Division.

THE LOVEJOY COLUMNS

REVIVING A PIECE OF PORTLAND’S PUBLIC ART HISTORY

The first pair of new column murals pay homage to Portland’s historic and lost Lovejoy Columns. Almost a century after the Lovejoy Columns were created, and nearly 25 years after they were lost, a new generation has lovingly recreated these titans of Portland’s art history so they can, once again, stand as touchstones to Portland's shared cultural heritage.

The original Lovejoy Columns were located in NW Portland, along Lovejoy St. (under the old Broadway Bridge ramp) and were painted between 1948-52 by Greek immigrant and master penman, Athanasios “Tom” Efthimiou Stefopoulos. Even though he was a professionally trained and talented artist, Stefopoulos was not able to fully pursue his dream of being an artist after coming to the US, only working sporadically teaching penmanship and painting signs for clients. . Instead, he  ended up working most of his life as a watchman in the northwest Portland rail yards for the SP&S Railroad Company.

During idle times working as a watchman in the train yards, Stefopoulos climbed atop the boxcars and painted the columns of the overpass with whimsical images of doves, owls, lions, anthropomorphic trees, mythical gods, and Americana. Although this was technically illegal graffiti (the word “graffiti” had yet to enter the popular lexicon, but it was surely in use in the urban environment), Stefopoulos’ art was appreciated and allowed to remain for decades. To Stefopoulos, these columns must have been an attempt to bring a little bit of his homeland and culture into this foreign land. Stefopoulos was fondly remembered as a quiet and kind man, who frequented the local Greek grocery store on Couch St and the Tacoma Tavern, above which  he lived in a small room. Stefopoulos lived a long life, passing away at the age of 89 in 1971.

Some of the Lovejoy Column art was lost throughout the decades, but much of the imagery was surprisingly preserved for over 50 years because it was naturally protected from the elements by the massive overpass. The Lovejoy Columns became an iconic part of Portland’s landscape, a “gritty temple of industry” and a real thrill to find for the adventurous urban flâneur. They were famously immortalized in Gus Van Sant’s movie, Drugstore Cowboy and Elliott Smith’s music video, Lucky Three. 

In 1999, when urban redevelopment began to sweep through the area, the 40-acre rail yard and Lovejoy overpass were set to be demolished. Many Portland politicians of the time agreed that these columns were an important cultural and historical asset, but the proper resources were never dedicated to ensure their preservation. RACC was encouraged to add the columns to the city’s official public art inventory. But all efforts failed and most of the columns were lost.

Thanks to extensive lobbying by Rigga, a group of insurgent Portland architects and artists (led by public installation artist James Harrison), ten of the painted columns were cut down and saved. This was a huge and expensive undertaking. Two of the best columns were later re-incorporated into the Elizabeth Loft Courtyard (NW 10th Ave between Everett & Flanders). The designs seen on the columns in the courtyard are just reproductions of the original art sealed away underneath glass. Sadly, these two columns have never been fully restored, even though extensive archaeological documentation was done on the column artwork before they came down. The other 8 original remaining columns lay in ruins and rubble in an abandoned lot near Naito Parkway. The Friends of Lovejoy Columns tried for years to protect the delicate paintings on these 8 columns, but in the end, lack of security and the northwest weather washed away the images.

The Hellenic-American Cultural Center and Museum in Portland hosts an amazing virtual collection; the “Master Penworks of Tom Stefopoulos: Hellenic Artist of the Lovejoy Columns” on their website. You can also listen to a podcast episode the museum created about Stefopoulos here.

Rankin “Vanessa” Renwick documented much of this perilous story in their work-in-progress documentary film “LoveJoy.” The Friends of Lovejoy Columns dreamed of erecting a gravestone for Stefopoulos, who is buried in an unmarked grave in Rose City Cemetery. His story is emblematic of many immigrants who struggled to find their way in Portland. His legacy lives on in the hearts and minds of many Portlanders who appreciate these small, yet powerful pieces of original insurgent public art.

To develop the new homage column mural designs, PSAA searched Oregon Historical Society and the Hellenic-American Cultural Center & Museum archives to gather inspiration. Muralist Hayden Senter developed beautiful collages that incorporated Stefopoulos’ paint marker (aka streaker) imagery from the original columns, inspirational quotes from Stefopoulos, and a portrait of Stefopoulos in his rail yard uniform, standing atop a boxcar amongst wildflowers. Also incorporated into the new mural designs are images of a Great Northern Spokane, Portland, Seattle boxcar from that time period, old Miller Paint cans, railroad nails, weathered wood, and a vintage stop sign.

““Travel Portland is proud to support the Portland Street Art Alliance with a Visitor Experience Enhancement Grant to complete vibrant murals celebrating the city’s artistic legacy. These grants are designed to bring innovative projects to life, enriching the visitor experience and solidifying Portland’s position as a top destination for leisure and business travelers. The Portland Street Art Alliance has been instrumental in placing Portland at the forefront of the arts and culture scene, making it a sought-after destination for those seeking a unique and inspiring experience.” ”
— Jennifer Parks, Travel Portland, Senior Community Engagement Manager 

HIGHLIGHTING THE WORK OF OTHER NONPROFITS

The other two columns celebrate fellow local non-profit organizations; Ground Score Association (GSA) and Portland Rose Festival Foundation. With this project, PSAA continued its ongoing partnership with GSA, a democratic workers association of dumpster divers, canners and other waste pickers. The organization creates and fills low barrier jobs in the waste and recycling sector, prioritizing opportunities for folks facing job and housing insecurity. 

PSAA muralist Hayden Senter works with Ground Score's Derrick Tanner on one of the murals.

GROUND SCORE ASSOCIATION

PSAA and Hayden Senter worked with GSA to include several of their workers in the design development process. PSAA hosted a design brainstorming session, providing GSA workers prompts to draw from and share ideas around (along with pizza and beverages). The imagery arises from, and speaks to, the communities they work with. GSA representatives provided the muralist feedback on the designs until everyone was satisfied with the final composition. GSA workers then helped the muralist paint their column mural using a paint-by-number system. This was a proud and fulfilling moment for all involved. PSAA provided the supplies and paid the workers for their time.

This column mural helps further PSAA’s mission to create relevant murals designed and painted by the communities we serve and expand upon our work highlighting the lives of people living with housing insecurities in our community. 

PORTLAND ROSE FESTIVAL’S DRAGON BOATS

The final column in this series is a tribute to Portland’s famous Dragon Boats and was sponsored by neighboring business owner, NorthRim, a longtime supporter of the work PSAA does in the community. Since 1989, Portland Rose Festival Foundation’s Dragon Boat Races have brought together local, national, and international rowers to compete in the Chinese tradition of dragon boat racing. The races are held on the Willamette River near the Hawthorne Bridge and the new Dragon Boat column mural.

““Painting these four columns in the Central Eastside was a special opportunity for me to be involved directly with the past and present of Portland. Being able to paint a tribute to a muralist whose work was influential to the growth of the local arts community, gave me insight to what Portland was and can be. Having the team at Ground Score collaborate in the process of designing and painting was essential to the social honesty of their mural. Their deep connection with the Central Eastside and eagerness to be a part of it, really helped inspire me to express an actual depiction of the environment. I hope these murals will serve as a hopeful reflection to the houseless communities living in the Central Eastside. I think when people see objects they interact with every day, painted large and with intent, it can bring a deeper sense of connection to their environment and communities.””
— Hayden Senter, Muralist

Major funding support for this project came from Travel Portland’s Visitor Experience Enhancement Grant program. These grants are designed to fund projects that enhance the visitor experience in Portland in alignment with Travel Portland’s strategic priorities and build on the region’s unique strengths, contributing to establishing the region as a preferred destination for leisure travel, meetings and conventions.

UP NEXT IN 2024

This first phase of PSAA’s new Viaduct Arts Column Initiative  was funded with a grant from Travel Portland with additional sponsorship and partner support from Miller Paint, NorthRim, Ground Score Association, Star Rentals, RACC, CEIC, and Multnomah County Bridge Transportation Division. 

Phase II of the Viaduct Arts Column Mural Initiative is scheduled for summer 2024 and will feature at least five more columns honoring the spirit of the Central Eastside, Portland, and the Pacific Northwest. 

Business and community members are invited to donate to sponsor more column murals and help support the arts - be a pillar of the community! Please email PSAA at info@pdxstreetart.org for more information about how to sponsor a future column mural.

IN THE MEDIA

 

PROJECT SPONSORS AND PARTNERS

Portland Icons Shine Downtown

Radiance

PORTLAND, OREGON

A new expansive mural evoking everything Portland now shines bright along Ankeny at the corner of SW 4th and SW Ankeny, on the exterior of the U.S. Bancorp Tower (a.k.a. “Big Pink”) parking garage in downtown. The 120’ long mural, titled Radiance, is the vision of the muralist dream team KSRA and They Drift. The artist duo recently relocated to Portland from Seattle and were excited for the chance to paint this statement piece in their new hometown.

Drawing inspiration from local commercial and public art, Radiance features neon signs from quintessential neighborhood locales interspersed with iconic Portland statuary. The neon signs were painted by artist KSRA, who along with being a talented muralist, creates miniature neon signs in a mixed media diorama-style both as a gallery artist, and in her day job at Laika Studios. The statuary was masterfully recreated by muralist and abstract portrait artist, They Drift (a.k.a. Carlos Aguilar).

“When Unico Properties and PSAA approached us to represent Portland’s historical neon and sculpture landmarks at Big Pink, we were thrilled. It’s been an honor to celebrate the craftsmanship of the artists that created these works.”  – KSRA & They Drift

The first piece of neon in Radiance honors Portland’s 3rd oldest continuously operated bar, the nearby watering hole, Kelly’s Olympian (426 SW Washington), which has been serving Portlander’s since 1902. Overlapping the Kelly’s Olympian sign is the head of one of the dragon statues that grace the Chinatown Gateway, entrance to Old Town/Chinatown, located just across Burnside nearby. Behind the dragon statue is the now retired Made in Oregon neon sign that graced the west end of the Burnside Bridge from 1997 to 2010.

The next piece of public art featured is the Skidmore Fountain, a National Historic Landmark located two blocks to the south of Big Pink. The Skidmore Fountain was designed by sculptor Olin Levi Warner and dedicated in 1888. Wrapping around the massive wall is the iconic neon sign from another Big Pink neighbor, the Portland Outdoor Store (304 SW 3rd), which recently celebrated its 100th year in business in downtown Portland. The Portland Outdoor Store's bold “Portland” neon awning has welcomed visitors since the 1940s.

On the right side of the mural, the new rose neon from neighboring Waterfront Park shines bright; a beacon of the “Rose City.” Anchoring the right section of the mural is Raymond Kaskey’s instantly recognizable Portlandia statue (circa 1985). Behind Portlandia, the legendary Voodoo Donuts sign glows brightly. Voodoo’s iconic neon sign can be seen across the street from the new mural.  

The final neon sign featured in the mural is the beloved Palms Motor Hotel sign (3801 N Interstate), a building which is now being used as a homeless shelter. At a towering 50’ high, the Palms Motor Hotel is arguably Portland's most recognizable neon sign masterpieces, with its tropical flare, monkeys, coconuts, and flashy mid-century feel. Strict sign codes enforced by the city, high maintenance costs and a steady decline in ‘mom and pop’ shops have sadly drastically reduced the number of neon signs over the past 50 years, but somehow, this iconic neon from the 1950s has survived intact, for now.

This mural is part of a collective effort to revitalize and expand Ankeny Alley in downtown.

“Since the pandemic, this area of downtown has really suffered. Over the last year we, alongside our neighbors, we collaborated with the City of Portland to make Ankeny Triangle a beautiful, walkable, must-see destination for locals and visitors alike. This mural is one of the many actions we have taken to help revitalize Portland – we are doing our part to bring Ankeny Triangle into the next phase of vitality with this beautiful and highly engaging piece of art. The wall, along the parking garage across from U.S. Bancorp Tower serves as a perfect canvas for this quintessentially Portland and vibrant, cultural expression of joy.” - Keren Eichen, Unico Properties Director of Real Estate Services

"The public-private partnership that painted roses and rainbows and lit street trees along Ankeny exemplifies Portland's resilience. Showcasing the city's vitality, this vibrant new mural features Portland's iconic landmarks." – Anne Hill, City of Portland’s Portland Environment Management Office

Muralist They Drift speaking at the mural unveiling event, hosted by Unico Properties and the City of Portland

Radiance was unveiled on December 11th 2023, with KSRA & They Drift in attendance, along with fellow artist Fez BeGaetz, whose spiraling neon flower sculpture, called “Helianthus Enorme,” is perfectly positioned next to the mural at the entrance to Ankeny Alley.

ADDITIONAL IMAGES + VIDEO

A Chinatown Treasure

GOLDEN HORSE RESTAURANT MURAL

Chinatown, Portland

Over the years, the number of Chinese-owned businesses have dwindled drastically in Portland's Old Town Chinatown. PSAA teamed up with muralist Alex Chiu and the City of Portland to celebrate the historic Golden Horse Seafood Restaurant on NW 4th Avenue.

Golden Horse is one of the only Chinese restaurants left standing in Portland’s Chinatown. It’s also one of the oldest restaurants in the area, and is a significant part of Portland's history.

“I’m so proud to have had the opportunity to paint for the Golden Horse Seafood Restaurant. It is my favorite Chinese restaurant in all of Portland. I recommend the Peking Pork, Honey Walnut Shrimp, and Japanese Style Egg Tofu. They make an incredible Chicken Sticky Rice, that can only be ordered specially in advance. It’s important for this restaurant to survive and thrive in the area. Please go support them! Thank you Sophy Li, your husband, and staff who were all so kind and supportive. Thank you for letting me paint your walls.” – Alex Chiu

For the mural’s background, Chiu created a basic wallpaper pattern that can either be interpreted as plum blossoms, popular in Chinese design or cherry blossoms, which are a visual symbol of the nearby Portland waterfront. The golden pegasus painted near the entrance is the restaurant’s logo.

The golden dragon is a symbol of Chiu’s personal journey as an artist. When he was an aspiring artist, Alex would visit San Francisco and see large murals of Chinese dragons painted on Chinatown walls. Since then It has been a goal of his to paint one of these dragons.

“I wanted this Golden Dragon to be the best Chinese dragon painting in Portland; something that would make Portland’s Chinatown proud. 2024 is the Year of the Dragon. I’m excited to have painted this mural in time for the new year!”  – Alex Chiu

IN THE MEDIA

 

Visual Storytelling

Multnomah County Library’S NEW OPERATIONS CENTER IN EAST PORTLAND

Portland, Oregon

Maker’s Mark I+II, by David Rice

In 2023, PSAA was commissioned by Multnomah County Library to help them create artwork for their new Operations Center in East Portland. PSAA worked closely with Hennebery Eddy Architects and Fortis Construction for over a year to make this project happen. A stunningly talented group of Pacific Northwest artists were selected by the library to create a unique collection of murals installed throughout the building. Panels were provided to each artist, and they painted their murals in their studios.

Jesslilyn Brinkerhoff

Cherish and Respect by Jessllyn Brinkerhoff

Oregon muralist and musician Jessilyn Brinkerhoff’s mural combines the natural wonders of Oregon forests to share a visually captivating story told through a series of concentric circles and small worlds to get lost in.

“This composition features cherished species from Northwest ecosystems. Depicted are a polyphemus moth, cedars, maples, dogwoods, fir cone, trout, salmon, cedar waxwing, cedar hairstreak butterfly, white oak, Mt. Hood, and views of the landscapes they reside in.” – Jessilyn Brinkerhoff

KYLER MARTZ

Between Pages and Petals by Kyler Martz

Titled Between Pages and Petals, this mural showcases Kyler’s vintage illustration style and ornate line work. He created an intricate composition that looks like it could grace the walls of a palace or the pages of a book.

“Weekly trips to the library as a kid were how I discovered art and built the worlds I still escape into today as an artist. I’m still inspired by the beauty that lies between the covers of books, and the places that house them.” – Kyler Martz

DAVID RICE

Maker’s Mark I by David Rice

Muralist David Rice was commissioned to create two large mural installations for the Operations Center’s 2nd floor, a beautiful open area to greet visitors and for employees to mingle.

David’s masterfully rendered hyper-realistic still life subjects, combined with his warm and vibrant palettes, give the artwork and space an elevated yet welcoming feel. You can certainly get lost in the wonderful details of these pieces. Titled Makers Mark 1 + 2, these companion pieces feature tools used by the artists that make up Portland's creative scene.

Maker’s Mark II by David Rice

“From writers to photographers, to painters and chefs, Portland is saturated with talented and creative individuals. This piece pays homage to our community of artists and the tools of their trade.” – David Rice

BLAINE FONTANA

Anthrohedrondermy by Blaine Fontana

Veteran Pacific Northwest muralist Blaine Fontana’s piece is titled Anthrohedrondermy, and creates an interconnected visual story weaving together flora, fauna, and our natural surroundings.

“My vision harmonizes ecospheres. Combining bold graphic narrative elements juxtaposed with a revealing painterly process is continually my passion and challenge. This artwork bridges flora and fauna, ancestral stories in stars, our connective linear river flow of time, and NW plants. My inspiration was to invoke an experience of humility and selfless respect inside our natural world.” – Blaine Fontana

NICKY KRIARA

Woodland Passages by Nicky Kriara

Woodland Passages was PSAA’s first opportunity to commission Portland artist Nicky Kriara. She delivered a wonderfully interwoven piece that highlights her graphic and illustrative line art style.

“Inspired by the biophilia of the Pacific Northwest, Woodland Passages celebrates the synergy of nature while drawing parallels to the world of books and knowledge distribution. I focused on the interplay of pollinators, seeds, and nectar within a forest. Among a backdrop of pine trees, the foreground consists of magnified imagery, including milk thistle seeds, a vibrant hummingbird, a columbine flower, pinecones, maple leaves, a ‘helicopter’ seedling, a microscopic view of plant cells, salmonberries, chanterelle mushrooms, a trillium, a thistle flower, and an intricate close-up of a Monarch butterfly wing. Each element symbolizes the art of observation and the cultivation of wisdom. The white line winding through the painting represents the fructifying wind, serving as a guiding path for alchemical transformations, similar to how libraries nurture an environment where ideas flourish and take shape.” – Nicky Kriara

Christian Tellez

Photo and Thesis, by Christian Tellez

Architect and Muralist Christian Tellez’ piece features close-up illustrations of carefully observed parts of nature in a patchwork pattern. The piece is titled Photo and Thesis, meaning watch and learn. With this mural, Christian is reminding the viewer to observe the natural world around them and to listen to its message.

“As light is converted into energy around us, we should always learn from nature and power society, transforming knowledge and kindness into hope and progress. Listen to nature, listen to the wise, feel the colors, feel the life, and seek the light.” – Christian Tellez

Washington-based Artist & Storyteller Toma Villa painted a mural entitled, Elk and Sturgeon. The mural design is based on a story told by people who come from the Nchí Wána (Columbia) River. 

“Elk wanders and wanders the land and keeps on returning to the big river. He looks across it and wonders what’s on the other side. He looks down at the water and sees so many salmon that he thinks he can walk across on their backs, but every time he tries, he slips and falls. Sturgeon is watching and asks what he’s doing. Elk replies that he wants to cross the river. Sturgeon replies, “I can get you across the river, but you have to give me something. You have to give me a piece of yourself.”  So Elk gives Sturgeon a piece of his own meat and Sturgeon carries it in his mouth. Elk climbs onto Sturgeon’s back and is able to stand without falling on Sturgeon’s rough skin. As Sturgeon swims across the river, the meat in his mouth becomes his cheeks. With their partnership, Sturgeon carries Elk to the opposite side of the river and the strength of Elk’s meat in his cheeks allows Sturgeon to eat whatever he wants.” - Toma Villa

UNVEILING EVENT

In January 2024, an unveiling event was hosted by the library to provide an opportunity for the project teams and public to see the new Operations Center building and mural artwork.

Artist Christian Tellez in front of his mural panel at the unveiling event hosted by the library.

Lewelling In Bloom

mural at Lewelling elementary

MilwaukIe, OREGON

Over the summer of 2023, Seth Lewelling Elementary School in Milwaukie, Oregon went into full bloom thanks to muralist Emma Berger! Through the month of August, Emma tackled a nearly 3,000 square foot wall, transforming the school’s exterior gym wall into a flowering paradise.

The mural includes the school’s small pond and its resident ducks. There are all sorts of animal life to find while exploring the piece, including lizards, birds, snails, and mason bees that were included to honor principal Mason Branstetter.

The new mural has been a dream project for the Lewelling Parent Teacher Organization (PTO). After 7 years of bake sales and fundraisers, the PTO was able to raise enough funds to support a mural at the school. Lewelling’s mural selection committee wanted to create a piece of community art with vibrant colors, and a project that would also allow for students to participate in the design development.

ABOUT THE ARTIST

Emma Berger (Flat Rabbit Studio) is a muralist, illustrator and tattoo artist based in Portland, Oregon. With training at Pratt Institute in NY and experience with set design and painting, Emma’s soft botanicals and boundless imagination made her the perfect fit for this massive mural job.

ADDITIONAL PHOTOS

Photography by Sara Sjol for Portland Street Art Alliance

Timbers Pride

POrtland TIMBERS HONOR CLYDE BEST

Portland, OREGON

Clyde Best and Artist Kyra Watkins in front of the new mural at Providence Park in Portland.

On September 22, 2023, a new mural honoring Clyde Best was unveiled at Providence Park. Best played for the Timbers in their first iteration in the 1970’s and traveled to Portland to be honored by the Portland Timbers. As part of the ceremonies the Timbers reached out to PSAA to help them create a mural in the stadium to honor Best and his legacy.

Former college athlete and Portland artist, Kyra Watikins, was the perfect fit for this project. As a muralist, Kyra is best known for her striking portraits. Kyra adeptly captured Best’s image; creating a prominent new mural to help honor and tell his inspiring story.

Before coming to Portland, Best was one of the first Black athletes to play in the first division of English Premier League when he was recruited from Bermuda in 1968 at age 17. An inspiration for generations of Black athletes, Best helped shape the future of soccer worldwide.

ABOUT THE ARTIST

Kyra Watkins apprenticed at age 15 with ArtWorks Cincinnati before attending the University of Cincinnati to study figurative art and portraiture. Since coming to Portland, she has worked with PSAA and is known for her work with "Never Look Away," a mural celebrating the LGBTQ+ community as well as having her work in the Black Lives Matter Artist Grant Exhibition at the Jordan Schnitzer Museum of Art at PSU. Most recently, Watkins was selected by PSU and the Jason Erik Washington Art Committee as an artist-in-residence to create an remembrance of Washington at PSU's Smith Memorial Student Union.

ADDITIONAL PHOTOS

Photography by Sara Sjol for Portland Street Art Alliance

Rest Easy Rabbitt

MURAL HONORING RABBITT

Portland, OREGON

PSAA and Pedalpalooza teamed up to create a mural to honor Portland icon and dearly departed friend, Rabbitt. Located at NE Broadway & 24th (on the side of Broadway Vet), the mural was designed and painted by local artist and friend of Rabbitt, Hayden Senter. 

Hayden worked closely with some of Rabbitt’s close friends for input on the mural. The result is a stunning collage of Rabbitt’s favorite things; trains, bikes, wildflowers, Markal grease markers, and more. The background even includes some of Rabbitt’s geometric artwork. 

Hayden’s style was the perfect fit for this tribute as he and Rabbitt shared the many of the same loves, namely trains and nature, that Hayden often incorporates into his works. Hayden did a phenomenal job not only capturing Rabbitt’s favorite things, but also his likeness as well. This was one of Hayden’s first mural portraits and he captured Rabbitt’s essence beautifully. 

This is a completely community-driven and supported project, with financial support coming from a contribution from the property owners and numerous donations from the community.

ABOUT RABBITT

Described by Bike Portland as a “giant of Portland’s bike scene” Rabbitt was a pioneer in Portland bike culture (Zoo Bomb, Chariot Wars, Pedalpalooza, Dead Baby bikes, etc.). Rabbitt was a fearless, skilled rider. He could be seen flying effortlessly through the city, like a bird perched atop his tall bike. Rabbitt helped make “Portland Weird.” Rabbitt was a lifelong rail rider. He had the wildest tails from his adventures. Sometimes he would still rail ride and hop trains. His classic rabbit ear moniker graced many locomotives. He was an excellent photographer, especially of train engines. Rabbitt loved cruising his motorcycle along the tracks, camping, being in nature, collecting flowers for friends, and excavating marbles from a rail spill.

Rabbitt started working with PSAA in 2018. In desperate need of a quick hired hand to help prep walls at Taylor Electric, he spent two blazing hot weeks removing soot, peeling paint, and laying down the base coat. He slept in his truck, starting early to beat the heat. Rabbitt proudly claimed he had the largest piece at PSAA’s now iconic Taylor Electric Project site (a.k.a. Nova at the Electric Blocks). He also painted a beautiful garage pillar. Rabbitt hung around, got to know the artists, and was on the Taylor Electric Block Party’s security team, hosting over 2500 event attendees in one evening. Even at the most stressful times, he would crack the best jokes. He would say, “It’s coming together like buttcheeks kids!” And it certainly was.

Rabbitt also painted existing murals, a doorway at the Oak St Studios Building (SE 2nd & Oak) and doorways at Solterra’s Construction Office (NE Alberta & 14th). He’d bring artists red clown noses to wear. Any paint we didn’t need, PSAA donated to Rabbitt. He was always eager to help. He was excited and proud to be a part of the street art community.

Rabbitt meant a lot to so many communities. He appeared to some as tough on the outside, but on the inside, was the gentlest soul. Rabbitt dove into life headfirst, wild, free, seemingly without fear. He lived an adventurous life, one most of us will only dream of. A one of a kind. A clown. A biker. A motorcycle adventurer. A rail hopper. A carpenter. An artist. A genuine soul. His legacy will continue to inspire and shine on.

Rest Easy Rabbitt.

ABOUT THE ARTIST

Hayden Senter (a.k.a. Chairboy) was born in 1991 in San Jose, CA and is now based in Portland. His techniques primarily consist of painting, drawing, printmaking and murals. Using a combination of muted and pastel color palettes, Hayden’s work evoke a feeling of separation. He collects imagery from daily walks, overgrown weeds in alleys, and abandonment.

MEMORIAL BIKE RIDE & Mural Unveiling

Honoring Rabbitt at the unveiling.

On August 30, 2023, PSAA and Pedalpalooza co-hosted a memorial bike ride for Rabbitt that weaved through Portland and visited Rabbitt’s murals before working its way up to the mural. The mural was officially unveiled with speeches by Meghan Sinnott of Pedalpalooza, Tiffany Conklin of Portland Street Art Alliance, and muralist Hayden Senter.

This project is part of PSAA’s Community Art Program. Special thanks to the building owners and Broadway Veterinary Clinic for providing access to the wall, help with logistics, and for providing a donation to PSAA to get the mural started. And a huge thank you to all the individuals and friends of Rabbitt who donated through the GoFundMe campaign to get this mural across the finish line. PSAA would also like to thank the local businesses who pitched in by providing us their paid parking space access and discounts for the mural unveiling. And finally, to Metro for their grant support and Miller Paint for their sponsorship support. It takes a village.  

This was truly a Community Art Project in every sense of the word. The Portland community came together beautifully to honor one of their own.

ADDITIONAL PHOTOS

Photography by Sara Sjol for Portland Street Art Alliance

 

PHOTOS OF RABBITT SUBMITTED BY THE COMMUNITY

Special thanks to Rabbitt’s friends who submitted so many amazing photos of him to be used for inspiration in the mural and included in this community image archive (Tiphani, Meghan Sinnott, Meg Holland, Cloe Ashton, Tim Trautmann).

PROJECT SPONSORS