LADIES UP WESTSIDE
HILLSBORO, OREGON
In 2024, PSAA expanded the Ladies Up Community Art Project by bringing it to Hillsboro, creating even more opportunities for female artists!
In 2020, PSAA launched Ladies Up to empower female-identifying artists in the local community. This groundbreaking initiative has grown steadily, and we’re thrilled to announce its expansion to Downtown Hillsboro, thanks to the generous support of First Tech Credit Union! Inspired by the success of our original Ladies Up location, featuring 12 rotating murals along SE Alder St & SE 15th Ave in Portland, First Tech Credit Union partnered with PSAA to bring this program to the west side.
The first mural at Ladies Up Hillsboro was created by talented illustrator and muralist Mandy Arroyo. A Pacific Northwest native, Mandy drew on her love of nature and trail running in Forest Park and around Mt. Hood to craft her stunning piece, “Mt. Hood Forest View.” Here’s what Mandy shared about her inspiration:
"This mural was inspired by the feeling of being connected to nature in the forest and the delight of stumbling upon a view of Mt. Hood through an opening in the trees. I hope it gives passersby a moment of joy and connection as they walk down 3rd Street in Hillsboro." - Mandy Arroyo
Despite the rain and chill of November, Mandy worked tirelessly to complete this lovely mural, which captures the magic of Mt. Hood framed by towering trees and an alpenglow sky.
Programs like Ladies Up give artists the freedom to choose their mural content, empowering them to grow their practice and share their unique perspectives. PSAA is proud to support Mandy and many other artists in shaping a more inclusive street art community.
“Over the last decade, First Tech has proudly invested over $20M into the community to support the next generation of leaders, thinkers, and innovators. The work of the Portland Street Art Alliance and their Ladies Up Project is inspiring. We are so proud to have been able to partner with our Board Member, Margo Fowler, to support this beautiful street art in Hillsboro.” – Chylon Pappas, CUDE VP, Corporate & Government Engagement
Thank you to First Tech Credit Union and everyone who makes programs like this possible! We also are incredibly grateful for the support from Adam at State Farm and Karl at the City of Hillsboro for helping us with logistics and permitting.