IRVINGTON'S ROSE


HONORING A NEIGHBORHOOD TREASURE

IRVINGTON, NORTHEaST PORTLAND


The Irvington neighborhood of Northeast Portland has a vibrant new landmark: a breathtaking mural that celebrates the cherished legacy of the historic Irvington Theatre, a cultural treasure and community hub for 65 years.

Titled Irvington’s Rose: A Tribute to the Historic Theatre, this captivating mural was designed and hand-painted by renowned Portland muralist Julia Alexis Hunkler. Through her meticulous artistry, Hunkler masterfully evokes the spirit of the theatre, which opened in 1925 as a 640-seat neighborhood cinema and became a beloved gathering place for generations.

Employing the intricate trompe l’oeil technique, Hunkler’s mural creates the illusion of stepping back in time. The scene draws the viewer into the theatre’s vibrant interior: a grand stage framed by rich burgundy curtains with golden accents. Rows of iconic red seats seem to extend into the foreground, while a green archway cleverly integrates the mural into the building’s historic facade. Adding to the mural’s charm are delicate yellow roses, a nod to Portland’s nickname, the City of Roses, and a poignant tribute to the theatre’s enduring significance.

At the heart of the mural are six blooming yellow roses, symbolizing the six decades the theatre served as a cherished neighborhood fixture; a place where stories unfolded on-screen, and connections blossomed off-screen.

“Every brushstroke became a way to reclaim the neighborhood's memories and pride for this historic theatre. This mural is a tribute not only to the theatre but also to the vibrant community it united,” – Julia Alexis Hunkler, Muralist

This mural also underscores the importance of community spaces in cities like Portland. Irvington’s Rose honors a piece of Portland’s history while celebrating the sense of belonging that the theatre inspired among residents of the Irvington and Boise neighborhoods.

While the original theatre space has transformed, it remains a vital community hub. In 2023, the beloved Milo’s City Cafe reopened in the theatre's historic location, thanks to Albert Escobar, a longtime former employee.

“When the curtain rises on any new mural project, it not only adds character and beauty to the location but is also the result of a months-long collaborative effort by neighbors, business owners, artists, art organizations, and the city. NEBBA had a great experience working with The Portland Street Art Alliance on the large mural on the back of the Broadway Grill & Brewery and did not hesitate to recommend them again for this project for their organization and helpful direction. We would also like to thank Metro and The Irvington Community Association for their help in funding this project!” – Bonnie Paisley Scott, Northeast Broadway Business Association

The mural was made possible through the collaboration of many community members. Funding came from building owners Kathy Schroeder and Tom Gustafson, a grant from Oregon Metro, support from the Northeast Broadway Business Association. Special thanks to Miller Paint for providing discounted materials to help bring this vision to life. This mural is now part of the city’s official public art collection, managed by the Regional Arts & Culture Council.

“PSAA is always excited to create historically-inspired murals in the communities we serve. These projects offer us a unique opportunity to explore local history and immerse ourselves in the stories of these places. This project was especially rewarding, as we had the chance to create artwork that seamlessly complements the timeless Art Deco design of the building on Broadway. Julia did an outstanding job bringing the Irvington Theatre to life through her work, ensuring that future generations will have the opportunity to connect with and learn from this piece of Portland cinematic history.” Tiffany Conklin, PSAA Executive Director

Whether you’re a longtime resident or a visitor, be sure to stop by and see the Irvington’s Rose. This vibrant new treasure is more than just a mural, it’s a testament to the power of art to honor the past, celebrate the present, and bring a community together.


A Look Back: The Legacy of the Irvington Theatre

Built in 1925, the Irvington Theatre was a beloved 640-seat, single-screen cinema that became a vibrant hub for residents of the Irvington and Boise neighborhoods. For decades, it served as a cherished gathering place, bringing the community together to enjoy the magic of film.

The theatre was home to a remarkable Estey Organ, custom-built specifically for Irvington Theatre. This II-manual, 10-rank organ, featured a luminous push-button console, was a state-of-the-art marvel of its time. According to the Encyclopedia of the American Theatre Organ, it cost $10,036; a significant investment for the era. Unfortunately, the organ was dismantled and recycled for parts in the 1930s, marking the end of a unique chapter in the theatre’s history.

In its later years, the Irvington Theatre endeared itself to the community by screening second-run films for just a dollar per ticket, cementing its reputation as a local favorite. However, as multiplex theatres began to dominate the movie-going experience, the Irvington Theatre struggled to compete. In 1990, it was forced to close its doors; a poignant loss for the Irvington neighborhood and for Portland’s cultural history.

The building's legacy began to reemerge with the installation of a striking new sign, crafted in collaboration with its owner and Security Signs in the early 2000s. 

Side By Side: Historical sign and new mural segment

Today, that vision has come to life with the completion of a breathtaking mural, fulfilling the long-held dream of the building’s current owners, Kathy Schroeder and Tom Gustafson.

“Since we purchased the Irvington building 15 years ago, we’ve dreamed of a large mural that would honor its rich history as a 1920s theatre. The journey began with the restoration of the iconic Irvington Theatre sign (by Security Signs of SE Portland) and now, with this incredible mural, the vision has finally come to life. We’re deeply grateful to the Northeast Broadway Business Association, Portland Street Art Alliance, METRO, the Regional Arts and Culture Council, and muralist Julia Alexis Hunkler for helping make this dream a reality.” –  Kathy Schroeder & Tom Gustafson, Property Owners 

The mural stands as a vivid tribute to the theatre’s golden era and a powerful reflection of the community spirit that shaped its history. More than a celebration of art, its completion marks a revival of Irvington’s cultural legacy, fostering a sense of connection and pride among residents, both past and present.


ADDITIONAL PHOTOS

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