A Mural of LADD’S Past, Present, and Pedals
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.
