Welcome to Toledo

WELCOME TO MAIN STREET

TOLEDO, OREGON

363 North Main Street, in the heart of downtown Toledo. Toledo’s new mural will span the entire north side face of the historic building, owned by the Krause Family.

Toledo Oregon now has an eye-popping “Welcome to Main Street” mural, designed and painted by the fabulous Jeremy Nichols. Working through high winds, heavy rain, and hail, Jeremy and his assistant Hayden Senter hammered this mural out in just one week. This job site was particularly tricky to paint due to the uneven and extreme slope. Luckily, the City of Toledo hooked us up with a City bucket truck and operator!

“​”This mural at the entrance to Main Street will help to distinguish one of the remaining true Main Streets here on the Oregon Coast and bring more awareness to our history and culture here in Lincoln County.””
— Rod Cross, City of Toledo Mayor

The mural features all things Toledo. From left to right: Paint brush and splatters to represent Toledo’s artist community, a Boomer mountain beaver (Toledo’s high school mascot), rhododendron flowers, golden chanterelles, logs and logging equipment (symbols of Toledo’s major paper mill industry, still in operation), railroad spikes (historic and present day rail line hub, check out their awesome railroad museum!), deer antlers, Douglas firs, and the mural’s center piece - a majestic Painted Lady butterfly common in Oregon.

Big thanks to the City of Toledo and Sequoia Consultants for making this happen! Even though it can be a challenge, we love painting on the Coast and in small rural towns across the Pacific NW! It’s very rewarding and amazing to see everyone’s reactions.

““I wanted to create a bright energetic mural that creates a sense of wonderment and curiosity, and help tell a story of the area. This is an exciting opportunity to brighten up the neighborhood, bring people together, and get to know the local community.” ”
— Artist Jeremy Nichols.

We Are Portland

WE ARE PORTLAND

CENTRAL EASTSIDE, PDX

Portland muralist Devin Finley and 7 regional graffiti artists completed an expansive mural titled “We are Portland.” In true PacNW style, this mural took several months to complete amid a wet winter season.

Located at SE 7th & Division, the mural features 6 large colorful portraits of Portlanders. This massive full city block mural can be seen from the 99W bridge, greeting viewers as they head into the Central Eastside, and overlooking the Rail Heritage Center.

Also featured prominently on the wall, brightly between each person, a stellar line-up of prominent Portland & Bay Area writers: Other, Nimby, Purge, Twigs, Raskoe, Norse, and Ckos.

Artist Devin Finley with a self-portrait

“We are Portland” is a mural focusing on several portraits, showing our city’s diversity; LGBTQIA+, people of color, various ages and gender identities, folks who are unhoused, and people living with disabilities. I wanted to turn away from the typical skin tones used to represent people, and experiment with an array of other colors. The additional portions of graffiti are a nod to the roots of where I acquired my skill set for this line of work.” – Devin Finley

The west wall features a self-portrait based on a high school photo. Surrounding the portrait are loving graffiti call outs to his daughters Ki and Miko. The next portrait on the south section of the building is Devin’s wife - completing his family tribute.

The Leroy Blocks

THE LEROY BLOCKS

SOUTHEAST, PORTLAND

In December of 2021, Portland Street Art Alliance and a group of local artists and community members came together to create a mural dedicated to Leroy Sly Scott (1956-2020), a longtime houseless neighbor in the Sunnyside neighborhood of Portland. Artists Kyra Watkins, Caleb Ruecker, Sarah Farahat and Tammy MacKinnon designed and painted the mural. Tony Boone, a community member and Street Roots vendor, helped assist. The mural was painted on the side of the historic Belmont Market located at SE 34th & Belmont, owned by Nick & Genevieve Clock. Many who have lived, worked, and played in this neighborhood likely recognize Leroy. He lived on the streets of Belmont for three decades. Many of us remember Leroy fondly as he always greeted people with a smile and kind gesture.

In August 2019, Leroy finally moved from the streets into housing, thanks to the hard work of his friends who advocated for him until the end. Leroy lived happily in his own apartment, but always missed his friends on Belmont. Less than a year later, Leroy was rushed to the hospital. He was unable to eat or drink for many days because of immense back pain. After a lot of tests, doctors found cancer had spread throughout his entire body. Leroy sadly passed away two weeks later at the Peace Hospice House with his friends by his side, listening to Frank Sinatra’s “My Way.” Folks from all around the city and world sent Leroy video messages, stuffed animals, cards, and his favorite candies. Friends held a socially distant memorial outside of Belmont Market for Leroy in which dozens of neighbors came to pay their respects and share stories about their dearly departed friend.

The Leroy Scott Memorial Mural now graces the side of Belmont Market, right next to the stoop Leroy spent many of his days. The portrait was painted by a muralist, Kyra Watkins. Next to it, in type designed by local artist Alicia Schultz, is his favorite saying, “All around the world, the same song," inspired by the Digital Underground song. 

The lettering and alcove were painted with the help of Caleb Ruecker, Tiffany Conklin, Tony Boone, Sarah Farahat, and Tammy MacKinnon. Additional designs are being added by the team, created by local artist Woke, who also painted the new Belmont Market sign a few years ago

House Keys, Not Handcuffs.

A SECOND MURAL has been created at the Leroy Blocks on the back of Tao of Tea, in a parking lot at 35th & Belmont. This mural is an advocacy piece to support our houseless neighbors that often get pushed aside and overlooked. The mural was painted by a team of local muralists with the message “House Keys, Not Handcuffs.” Also included are call outs to the Street Roots newspaper.

DETAILS OF HOUSE KEYS, NOT HANDCUFF S MURAL

The mural was created by a team of 4 local muralists including Jade Sturms, Maddo Hues, and friends. It is designed in a style similar to the Keep on the Sunnyside Mural (30th & Belmont) and the mural at 3300 SE Belmont St, making it the perfect addition to the neighborhood's art collection. With both these new murals, PSAA has been helping host free BBQs for the local houseless community, working in partnership with Street Roots vendor, Tony Boone. 

Once a year, PSAA chooses one pro-bono community project where we volunteer our management time and work to fundraise to secure a budget for artist stipends and paint supplies. These two murals are 100% community-driven and supported.

LEROY BLOCKS IN THE NEWS

Friends of Leroy, Tony Boone, Frank Sinatra (the dog) and Caleb Ruecker.
Photo Courtesy of: John Notarianni, OPB

PHOTOS OF LEORY AND FREINDS

PHOTOS OF THE IN-PROCESS MURAL WORK on THE FIRST MURAL

Salt and Straw

SALT AND STRAW PRODUCTION

CENTRAL EASTSIDE MURAL DISTRICT

Portland Street Art Alliance is pleased to announce the completion of a tasty installation at Salt & Straw’s Production Kitchen in the Central Eastside Mural District. After nearly a year in the making, in December of 2021, seventeen artists from Portland and Seattle came together to wrap the nearly 7,000 square foot building in a confectionery dreamland!

The Snow Miser by BOSE

All artists worked with aerosol spray paint over a three week period to transform their portion of the Salt & Straw warehouse walls. Artists had the freedom to paint what they pleased, but were asked to keep a loose color scheme and an ice cream and candy theme in mind. 

The South wall runs along SE Ash Street, which is now transformed by three crisp and colorful Candyland-inspired works by GPK crew artists BOSE, FLASH, and CALM.

The East wall that runs along SE 3rd Avenue is anchored by two amazing throw-backs by artist BOSE from the 1974 claymation classic cartoon, The Year Without A Santa Claus.

The Ash Street side begins with Snow Miser spraying snowflakes across the wall. Down the way, a classic work by ABNR (4SK) covers the wall in candy-colored style. Two works on this wall are by street artist OUCH (MLS) with a shout out to HOPS (Seattle). These pieces include a rainbow colored work with a smiley scoop of ice cream on top.

In the center of the wall is a beautiful bombshell named “Candy” decked out with clever candy callouts by artist Villatose, who recently moved to Portland from Miami FL.

Next up are works by notorious Portland graffiti artist ZAE of the MLS crew, and BUNDY, another longtime Portland artist. The end corner is held down by another massive character painted by BOSE, this time a sundae-slinging Heat Miser, another familiar classic from the 1974 cartoon The Year Without A Santa Claus. The end corner is held down by another massive character painted by Bose, this time a sundae-slinging Heat Miser, another familiar classic from the 1974 cartoon The Year Without A Santa Claus.

The entire North facing wall of the Salt & Straw Community Project was managed by longtime artist and community organizer, Jay Meer, and is an ode to the cultural and historic landmark Burnside Skatepark, located just around the corner on SE 2nd Ave under the Burnside Bridge.   

The wall includes several pieces, a massive transition, and is capped at both ends with a skate rat and an ice cream eating, skateboard riding wild hare. Jay Meer pulled together a stellar painting crew including VIDEO (Seattle), YETI (Seattle), Sam Harang (PDX), and Grreviews (PDX).

And there’s an extra sweet surprise on Salt & Straw’s recycling shed on the South side of the building which is covered with delicious works by artists GIVER and EKOSE of the 4SK crew. 

Artwork by Jay Meer

Thank you to all our partners!

PSAA would like to thank the property owners, Michael and Patsy Myers for their support and partnership on this ground breaking new project.Michael Myers built this warehouse decades ago, after starting Coastal Produce when he was just 19 years old.

Not only were they part of making Produce Row what it is today, Coastal Produce was one of the largest produce distributors in the United States and revolutionized the produce distribution industry during its time in business.

“Having done business in the Central Eastside of Portland for almost six decades, I have never seen such a beautiful, rapid, ongoing transformation of a business district as what I am seeing with Portland Street Art Alliance’s mural projects in our Central Eastside. Building by building, mural by mural, Tiffany Conklin and Tomas Valladares of the Portland Street Art Alliance, along with these gifted artists are making Central Eastside such a beautiful place to live and work. I would strongly encourage other business and property owners to work with PSAA to be the next building in this transformation of our beloved Central Eastside.”

– Michael Myers, Property Owner

PSAA would also like to thank the ownership and management of Salt & Straw (a local Portland based ice cream maker) for their incredible support in this effort, from property owner negotiations, to site preparations, and oversight – and for the delicious ice cream party they hosted for the artists and PSAA team!

"We are beyond excited to be a part of this project. We love Portland and the Central Eastside is becoming a hub of local food makers, so investing in this part of the city is very important to us. These artists are incredibly talented and giving them a canvas to display their art is truly an honor. We feel so lucky to be graced with their beautiful work on a daily basis as we come to work - it makes every day better for hundreds of people in the area!”

– Kim Malek, President & CEO, Salt & Straw 

Thanks to The Painter Guys, LLC for laying down such a yummy minty palette and for their help creating the larger-than-life sprinkle motif featured across the top of the building. The Painter Guys are an artist-led commercial painting company.

PSAA would also like to thank Todd DeNeffe for their ongoing support and guidance in the Central Eastside navigating painting sites like this.

Also, a big thank you to the Safety for All team efforts ensuring that our artists have safe access to the walls for painting.

Although we got rained out, PSAA would also like to thank Trash for Peace’s Ground Score for helping us get houseless day workers lined-up for wall prep at this site.

An empowered Villatose, learning to operate a large boom lift for the first time.

And thank you to Tomas Valladares of PSAA for providing free several of the artists with free aerial lift OSHA safety training in preparation for this mural project. These skills help artists grow and gives them the ability to take on larger, well-paying projects.

Photography by Sara Sjol for PSAA. Additional photos by Chris Christian.

Vernonia Mural Festival

VERNONIA MURAL FESTIVAL

VERNONIA, OREGON

October, 2021 (Portland, OR) – Portland Street Art Alliance is pleased to announce the completion of eight new murals in downtown Vernonia. Working alongside PSAA, and local resident Rachael Organ, the Columbia Economic Team secured a grant from Travel Oregon to help beautify downtown, selecting several walls around town to be painted with murals. 

Artists Oliver Casillas and Francisco Morales

This fall, six Pacific Northwest based artists came together to paint at various sites through downtown Vernonia. Artists Jeremy Nichols (@plasticbirdie), Francisco Morales (@laylowcreative), Maddo Hues (@yomaddo), Hayden Senter (@chairboy), Oliver Casillas (@casillas_oliver) and Dan Lee (@bigtroublehandpainted) weaved together stories of Vernonia’s past and present, all while creating art to help expand its future. The area features a variety of outdoor activities including camping, biking the lush Banks-Vernonia trail and fishing on Lake Vernonia. Vernonia’s outdoor beauty combined with its restaurants, shops and murals make Vernonia the perfect locale for a taste of rural Oregon with an urban flair.

Panels from Artist Maddo Hues mural at R&S Market.

With materials ranging from latex to spray paint, artists worked in a variety of styles to create a vibrant mosaic of new public art in Vernonia. While concepting the mural artists worked closely with community members and building owners to bring the best of Vernonia to the walls of its downtown.

Themes include both historic and modern-day commerce – with highlights honoring Vernonia’s rich logging history and references to the historic Vernonia Oregon Lumber company and railroad, the region’s flora and fauna, local outdoor recreation, and Vernonia’s cinematic history.

Since Vernonia is over an hour's drive from Portland down winding roads in the mountains, artists stayed at the Caden Inn, located in downtown Vernonia. This unique experience allowed artists time to enjoy the charming town, eat at its restaurants, and to interact with residents.

I felt like I was a part of Vernonia for that week or two. Seeing the same kids run around the block, or the same few people who couldn’t sleep at night coming up and talking when I was wrapping up painting for the day. I feel lucky being able to paint in a place where public art doesn’t happen that much or at all.”
- Hayden Senter

“Painting in Vernonia was truly an incredible experience. I did not know a lot about this area beforehand. Through my time there, I fell in love with this town. It’s amazing to learn so much about a town and the locals in just a few days. The local community was welcoming, supportive, and very excited to see all of us brighten up the town. Being able to interact with the locals, I was able to learn about their history, the history of the town, and the local culture.”
- Jeremy Nichols

INAUGURAL VERNONIA MURAL FESTIVAL

On September 4, as artists were wrapping up, Portland Street Art Alliance, local non-profit Hands on Art, and community members across town, held an Inaugural Mural Festival to unveil its new gallery of public art. 

Attendees chatted with artists, took photos, and even created a bit of art themselves with chalk provided by Hands on Art. Community members from Hands on Art also hosted a mural festival information booth, handing out maps so people could find the new artwork.

People came by foot, car and bike to see the artists in action and to take in a beautiful rural Oregon day. Both locals and tourists alike enjoyed talking with the artists, learning more about the process and the inspiration behind the art and, of course, taking photos. 

The new public piano, painted by artist Oliver Casillas was put to good use at the festival as locals serenaded passersby with piano and mandolin music. PSAA directors Tomás Valladares, Tiffany Conklin, and Galen Malcom were at the festival talking to locals and visitors, taking impromptu groups of people on mural tours throughout the day.

After the festival wrapped a seventh mural featuring scenes from the classic 1961 film, Ring of Fire, was completed by artist Dan Lee on the side of the old Joy movie theater.

COMPLETED VERNONIA MURALS

Mariolino's Pizza - Artist Francisco Morales, Assisted by Oliver Casillas

For the festival, artist Francisco Morales created a vibrant mural with call-outs to Vernonia's logging traditions both past and present. The mural also features visual cues to Vernonia's classic car (and motorcycle) meetups that begin in Vernonia and zip through mountains of the Coast Range. White trilliums that dot the bottom are native to Vernonia’s forest in the spring.

Extra, Extra!

This location had extra space on its walls, and visiting artist Oliver Casillas (Talent, Oregon / Guadalajara, Mexico) was able to create an impromptu mural during his stay. Casillas was also able to paint another impromptu project, thanks to a local resident donating an old piano that was painted with leftover supplies. It now resides in one of Vernonia public plaza’s for all residents to use and enjoy.

Black Iron Grill + Island Grill - Artist Jeremy Nichols

During his stay, Jeremy Nichols completed two murals in Vernonia. The first mural, located on the back of the Black Iron Grill, focused on the local bird species found in the area. The great white egret can often be spotted at Vernonia Lake, while the red-winged blackbird is common at sites across the area. The stumps lining the base of the mural are a nod to local loggers. 

Nichols’ second mural is located in a community park/alleyway next to Island’s Grill. Featuring a rooster, strawberries and local greens, this mural was a homage to area farmers and Vernonia’s farmers market.

 Rock Creek Professional Building -  Artist Hayden Senter

Mural by Hayden Senter

Artist Hayden Senter enjoys painting subtle scenes derived from his surroundings. His murals tend to contain antique and discarded objects that are often overlooked. 

Senter’s double mural gives the viewer the impression of looking from one window and seeing through it to the mural on the other side.

On the front panel, entangled in wildflowers, sits an old bicycle parked next to a wooden window pane. On the right side of the window rests a glimmer of Vernonia’s past - a rusted steam donkey. A steam donkey, or donkey engine, was a steam-powered winch once widely used in logging. Abandoned and rusty old steam donkeys can still be found in the mountains surrounding Vernonia.

“ I hope my mural functions as a place for people to stop and look. Maybe take them somewhere else for a moment. I’m looking forward to the way people interact with these elements in my mural - that they are relatable enough to recognize as familiar - but also used differently enough to allow for a different perspective.”
- Hayden Senter

R & S Market - Artist Maddo Hues

Gracing the entire front of the R&S Market, this multi-panel mural by Portland-based artist (and ex-train hopper) Maddo Hues tells the story of Vernonia. The tall dividing panels feature representations of natural commodities of the area with lumber, fish and flora. 

The first wide panel depicts a fisherman on the Nehalem River that runs through town. The second features bike riders on the Banks-Vernonia Trail. The last large panel on the right is an homage to the Banks-Vernonia railroad which is now the site of the Rails-to-Trails project that created the Banks-Vernonia Trail.  

“I decided to paint a handful of different scenes and objects that represent both the history and present day activities that make Vernonia such a nice place to be. I got to meet many of the locals since I was painting at the only grocery store in town. I could hardly go 15 minutes without receiving a compliment from someone. It is very fulfilling to have had the opportunity to use my skills to create something that the community of Vernonia enjoys so much.”
– Maddo Hues

Gretchen’s Saddlery & Joy Theater -  Artist Dan Lee

Artist Dan Lee took his inspiration from Vernonia’s cinematic history. His mural is a conglomeration of scenes from the 1961 movie Ring of Fire. Vernonia is where much of the town and the burning mill scenes were filmed, including the iconic steam engine crash from atop a local trestle. Lee also recreated the type from the original movie poster to tie the mural together.

In 1961, Georgia-Pacific Corporation had just phased out its fleet of steam locomotives in its closed down Toledo, Oregon logging operations. Some locomotives went to local community parks for display, but one was sacrificed for the Ring of Fire shoot.

I feel very fortunate to have been allowed this opportunity to paint on this beautiful historical landmark and hopefully to have made something that resonates with residents in the community. It’s hard to put into words how palliative the experience was, painting in that idyllic setting during early fall, and the kind words of encouragement from those passing by. I can only hope that the rest of the projects I’m lucky enough to be a part of are as special. Thanks to all the folks at Portland Street Art Alliance, Travel Oregon and Miller Paint for the opportunity and support, and thank you Vernonia for having me! - DAN LEE

All Eyes on Vernonia

While Vernonia has struggled economically and was hit hard by the pandemic, there are creative bright spots that make it unique. Starting with 1961’s Ring of Fire, Vernonia has enjoyed a rich cinematic history including movies such as Twilight and Vernonia’s most recent production, Harpo Film’s The Waterman. A key feature that brought the production crew to Vernonia was another creative bright spot in town, the ‘Old Mill’ or locally known as the “Chip Shed”.

The Vernonia mill, located at Vernonia Lake, was one of the last remnants from the timber mill that was set aflame in Ring of Fire. It sat empty and mostly unused for years, aside from a bit of graffiti by local kids. 

Six years ago, with the owner’s permission, PSAA began coordinating with the mill owner and visiting artists to give the Old Mill in Vernonia a second life. Since the Old Mill project’s inception, Vernonia has become an unexpected epicenter for street art, far beyond the confines of the city. This touchstone started a partnership that directly led to the creation of this mural festival.

Murals help communities create a long-lasting shared experience, as well as providing social and commercial value. By creating compelling spaces for people to visit, spend time at, and pose for photos on social media, these permanent pieces of public art will assist Vernonia with its economic recovery by helping bring in more tourism dollars – all while fostering better understanding to help overcome the rural-urban divide.

With local Vernonia support, the Portland Street Art Alliance has applied for an Oregon Community Foundation Grant in the hopes to expand the festival in 2022. Special thanks to the City of Vernonia for being so welcoming, Rachael Organ for all her hard work securing walls and helping with festival planning logistics, Paul Vogel and Wela Negelspach at the Columbia Economic Team for their administrative support, Josette Mitchell at the City of Vernonia for processing all the permits, Kyle LaMontagne for his videography support, Brenda Fielding at the Caden Inn for help with accommodations, and the entire artist team,project partners, and local community residents for all their hard work and support in making this event a reality.

Vernonia Mural Festival Locations

805 Bridge St @plasticbirdie 
735 Jefferson @yomaddo 
712 Bridge St @plasticbirdie 
622 Bridge St @chairboy_
721 Madison  @laylowcreative
919 Bridge St @casillas_oliver
715 Bridge St @bigtroublehandpainted
733 Bridge St @gatsptv 
Video Recap: https://vimeo.com/632555082

Living Building Murals

3 New Murals at PAE Living Building

DOWNTOWN , PORTLAND

Artist Jessilyn Brinkerhoff in front of her coastal inspired mural.

Three new murals now grace the walls of Portland’s newest Living Building. Portland Street Art Alliance worked with PAE Engineers to produce a mural for each level of their new headquarters in the PAE Living Building in downtown Portland. Each floor depicts a different Oregon ecosystem. The third floor is inspired by the Oregon coast, followed by a forest scene on the fourth floor, and on the fifth floor; an alpine landscape.

Forest Landscape

Alpine Landscape

Eugene-based artist Jessilyn Brinkerhoff was a natural choice to bring the Oregon outdoors in. Brinkerhoff’s rural Oregon roots along with her love of wild places and bold design made her a perfect fit.

Jessilyn spent a year completing regional research and site visits to craft a distinct look for each ecosystem. Both an experienced graphic designer and muralist, Jessilyn combined her skill sets to create three graphically compelling and visually stunning murals. 

Each mural features both flora and fauna found in each ecosystem tied together with a series of concentric circles inspired by the Fibonacci spiral. The colorways were selected with inspiration from the colors of each region. 

All materials in the building, including the mural paint, were held to the strict standards of the International Living Future Institute’s Living Building Challenge Red List. The Red List represents the “worst in class” materials, chemicals, and elements known to pose serious risks to human health and the greater ecosystem that are prevalent in the building products industry.

Brinkerhoff’s Design on Paper

“I was honored to paint for the new PAE Living Building, a truly incredible space that is paving the way for others to learn from.” - Jessilyn Brinkerhoff

COASTAL ECOSYSTEM

The coastal ecosystem features a palette of tawny browns, pastel orange and coral colors, depicting Oregon’s rocky coast. The scene features gooseneck barnacles, razor clams, coastal climate wind patterns, kelp, waves, seabirds, coral, ocean fish, starfish, a brackish estuary, and an ancient ammonite fossil. Offshore monoliths including Haystack Rock anchor the scene.

ABOREAL ECOSYSTEM

The Forest mural features rings of the forest ecosystem including the mycorrhizal layer, soil, the canopy, old growth trees, butterflies, fiddle ferns, earthworms, sword ferns, colonies of mushrooms, and multiple species of flowers. The colors were drawn from the hazy blue of distant trees and the vibrant yellows and greens of Oregon’s temperate rainforests.

ALPINE ECOSYSTEM

The top floor of the PAE Living Building features Oregon’s alpine ecosystem. The mural contains clouds, rain, snow and native plants including pinecones, evergreens, fir trees, beargrass and wildflowers. The center scene highlights a snow-capped peak overlooking a tree- lined valley. The colors are inspired by the bluebird skies and powder white of Oregon’s alpine environments in winter.

What is a Living Building?

Living Building Certification is the world’s most rigorous proven performance standard for buildings. A building that achieves Living Building Certification must meet all performance imperatives of seven Petals: Place, Water, Energy, Health and Happiness, Materials, Equity, and Beauty. Three of the most notable requirements are 1) that the building must generate all of its own energy, 2) capture and treat all of its water onsite, and, 3) meet the imperatives of the Materials Petal. Living Buildings achieve their full certification after one year of occupancy. Learn more at: https://living-future.org

Why is the PAE Living Building different?

Located at SW First and Pine in the heart of the city’s historic Skidmore/Old Town District, the mixed-use PAE Living Building is designed to be the first fully certified Living Building in Portland and the largest commercial Living Building in the world. 

Designed to last for 500 years, the approach marries the look and feel of a historic neighborhood with the highest possible energy performance and sustainability standards. Inside, healthy materials meet ILFI’s Red List requirements, ample daylight, views, operable windows, and other biophilic strategies to support occupant health, comfort, and productivity. The building is set to help achieve Portland’s 2050 renewable energy target of 100 percent renewable energy 30 years ahead of schedule. Notably, all of the building’s water and energy needs will be produced via rainwater capture, and onsite and offsite solar arrays.

MORE INFO AT: https://www.pae-engineers.com/projects/pae-portland-living-building

Photo Gallery

Downtown Details

NEW MURAL IN DOWNTOWN PDX

PORTLAND, OREGON


PSAA is excited to share Chet Malinow’s latest mural creation, working in partnership with CBRE (@CBRE). This mural is located in CBRE’s newly renovated office building in downtown Portland, ASPECT, at 400 SW 6th Ave.

“I enjoyed the mathematics and intense planning of this project. I call this style of painting “Pill Paintings.” The solid fields of color or pills, where mapped out with a laser level to keep everything straight. Then, I filled in all the black shapes with a variation of paint pens. This work is extremely meditative, and I really enjoy filling in all the black background. I have developed the black shapes from years of drawing and learning how to use each shape to fill in a void of space.”

Upper Left Cities

READ ALL ABOUT IT!

From the authors of Portlandness comes Upper Left Cities, a new book that compares and contrasts San Francisco, Portland, and Seattle through innovative cartography. In 150 infographic maps, this compelling book compares and contrasts the great cities of the Upper Left part of the US. Upper Left Cities explores unexpected and diverse topics like lost jazz clubs, Japanese food, church bells, and Sasquatch through creative infographics leveraging forms like crossword puzzles and musical notation.


Upper Left Cities was co-authored by Portland Street Art Alliance board member and PSU Professor Hunter Shobe. PSAA Executive Director, Tiffany Conklin has also co-written a section about the graffiti scene in these great west coast cities.

Custom Fonts by Galen Malcom

Custom Fonts by Galen Malcom

IMG_5593.jpeg
Graffiti section co-written by Tiffany Conklin

Graffiti section co-written by Tiffany Conklin

Upper Left Cities redefines modern cartography by going into uncharted territory to create a narrative about three great cities through informative and detailed infographic maps. Who needs Rand McNally when you can explore a city by taking a trip through wildlife and city trails or by drilling down into your city's voting records, commutes, marathon routes, and food and drink patterns? Better yet, why not compare three great cities at once?

The work of two geographers and their team, this cultural atlas includes more than 150 maps, each using data around a given topic and then translating that to a visual format that blends traditional cartographic skills with modern graphic design. A perfect blend of form and function, each map is meticulously and ingeniously designed. The collection of maps cover history, geography, social and economic issues, and pop culture, offering readers a visual, intellectually stimulating experience that they will want to dip into again and again.

About the Authors

Hunter Shobe is a cultural geographer and assistant professor at Portland State University. He holds a PhD in geography from the University of Oregon and has more than twenty years of experience researching the cultural, political, and economic dimensions of how people connect to places and environments. Past studies focused on diverse topics, including the role of Football Club Barcelona in constructing urban identity in Barcelona, and national identity in Catalonia. 

Additional Photography by Rachel Escoto. Additional Research provided by Lourdes Jimenez.

Additional Photography by Rachel Escoto. Additional Research provided by Lourdes Jimenez.

David Banis has managed the Center for Spatial Analysis and Research in the Geography Department at Portland State University since 2006, working with a wide variety of partners at the federal, state, and local levels. His work explores the diverse ways that cartographers can tell stories with maps, focusing on the mapping of nontraditional subjects.

GET YOUR COPY TODAY!

POWELL'S

INDIE BOUND

AMAZON

BARNES AND NOBLE

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Mt Whitney Blocks

Sixteen New Murals Pop on Portland’s Central Eastside

CENTRAL EASTSIDE , PORTLAND

Jack Graydon, Matt Schlosky and Jesus Torralba

Jack Graydon, Matt Schlosky and Jesus Torralba

Portland Street Art Alliance is pleased to announce one of our largest Community Art Projects to date. This August, sixteen artists from across the city came together to paint The World Pac, Inc. building at 636 SE 10th Avenue in SE Portland. This new project, named the Mt. Whitney Blocks, contains a gallery of new works in a wide range of styles and techniques.

Lawson Buemio

Lawson Buemio

Jesus Torralba

Jesus Torralba

Sunny Beard

Sunny Beard

Using a mix of spray paint and latex bucket paint, each artist worked over a three week period to transform their portion of two city blocks in Portland’s Central Eastside Mural District. 

Artists had the freedom to paint what they pleased, as they continued to hone their skills. Each artist was given a section of the World Pac, Inc. building that wraps around SE 11th and Alder.

The first wall begins on SE 11th street, which is now transformed with murals. Splashes of color delight as one walks by each unique panel. The content of the murals is as varied as the artists themselves. Subjects range from fun scenes, to stories of the past, friendly reminders (such as ‘plants are our friends’) and themes of identity and culture.

Works by Boycott Yourself, Daniel Santollo and John Vance.

Three murals on the 11th street side of the project

The Mt. Whitney Blocks contain works from established artists like Matt Schlosky, a 15-year Portland veteran artist, to a piece by first time solo-muralist Victor Bizar Gomez. 

“The genuine excitement I saw from people on the streets about my mural has been so refreshing, and I can't wait to get out there again in the future. Much thanks to Portland Street Art Alliance for inviting me into this project.”
– Victor Bizar Gomez

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“Huge thanks to Portland Street Art Alliance for including me in this group mural project in SE Portland. I had an amazing time meeting all the artists and spending a few days painting in the sun. Looking forward to doing more murals in 2021!” –Jade Strums

These projects give artists the opportunity to build their portfolios by allowing them to work at scale and in their preferred style. Artists from various PSAA Community Projects have since been selected from PSAA’s Artist Roster for market-rate commissioned work across the region.

Sponsors & 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.

WALL MANAGER: 
Lawson Buemio

PHOTOGRAPHY:
Sara Sjol

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Calligraphy and Culture

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Portland Street Art Alliance Hosts Qatari Artist Fatima Al Sharshani

CENTRAL EASTSIDE , PORTLAND

Artist Fatima Al-Sharshani at her mural.

Artist Fatima Al-Sharshani at her mural.

Portland Street Art Alliance was pleased to work with Qatari artist Fatima Al-Sharshani via our partners at Gradient (NYC) and Qatar-USA 2021 Year of Culture program. In 2021, Year of Culture paired with JEDARIART, to bring Qatari muralists to the United States. JEDARIART is a public art initiative and international cultural exchange designed to deepen understanding between nations and their people. This is the first year JEDARIART is travelling internationally, pairing local partners with visiting artists in 5 cities across the U.S.

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Over a two week period, artist Fatima Al-Sharshani worked with the assistance of Portland artist Sarah Farahat to create a stunning calligraphy-based mural at the Mt. Whitney Blocks in Southeast Portland. This was Fatima’s first visit to the U.S. and their second public art mural production.

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After laying down the brushed portion of the circle, Fatima began adding letters in Arabic calligraphy. While each letter stands on its own, the bounty of letters flowing together help one appreciate the beauty of calligraphy in an altogether new way. As a finishing touch, splatters were added in an organic fashion.

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The mural, titled "Never Ending / Endless" is an abstract piece that merges Arabic letters into a shape of a circle, representing continuity. The piece is intended to be viewed clockwise (Arabic writing reads right to left). Following along the circle, one’s eyes are transported down and around to Fatima’s expressive calligraphy that finishes the form. 

The inner depth of the circle is a “sensory expression that sparks a notion of infinity, and the never-ending power that lives within us.”

“Because I have the passion for Arabic calligraphy, I feel that there is a relationship between myself and the letters. When I can’t write something, the letters are sad, because for a long time I did not talk to them.”
— Fatima Al-Sharshani via The Willamette Week
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This beautiful new piece is part of a larger Portland Street Art Alliance community project known as the “Mt. Whitney Blocks.” This project features a total of 15 murals and gave Fatima the opportunity to exchange ideas and techniques with multiple Portland-based artists. Learn more about the larger Mt Whitney Blocks project here.

““I had a good experience with this project. I enjoyed getting to paint in Portland and meet fellow muralists.” ”
— Fatima Al-Sharshani

While in Oregon, Fatima was able to visit the Oregon Coast, tour mural sites across the city, pet her first dog, and experience the magnificence of local landmarks such as Multnomah Falls.

ABOUT THE ARTIST

Fatima Al-Sharshani 
Never Ending / Endless
@qair.qa

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Qatari-based calligrapher, Fatima Al-Sharshani, has been honing her artistic penmanship for the past several years. Originally a Chemistry and Food Science graduate from Qatar University, Fatima first discovered her passion for the arts in 2011.With Calligraphy, Fatima has given her written words more power. She enjoys the calmness and perseverance that comes from continuously improving her skills, and the meditative effect it has on her. While perfecting her skills in Diwani, Moroccan Calligraphy, Thulth, and Free line, she has organized multiple calligraphy workshops in order to share her passion with her community.

ABOUT QATAR USA 2021 YEAR OF CULTURE

Qatar-USA 2021 Year of Culture is a partnership between Qatar Museums (QM), the United States Embassy in Doha and the Embassy of Qatar in the United States, featuring a wide-range of programming including exhibitions, festivals, bilateral exchanges, and more.

ABOUT JADARIART

JEDARIART is an annual program in Qatar developed by Qatar Museums in 2020 to add vibrancy and meaning to the walls of Doha murals, encouraging individuals to reflect on social, historical, and cultural conversations and contains a diverse range of works by some of Qatar’s most recognized artists and by celebrated international artists throughout Doha.

PRESS

Article from Portland’s Willamette Week

Article from Portland’s Willamette Week

Article in Doha News

Article in Doha News

Gulf Press Newspaper

Gulf Press Newspaper

New York Daily Press

New York Daily Press

Article By Peninsula News in Qatar

Article By Peninsula News in Qatar

Post by I Love Qatar

Post by I Love Qatar

SPONSORS

Thank you to our partners:

Gradient 
North Rim PDX
Central Eastside Industrial Council 
World Pac Inc.
Ground Score Association / Trash for Peace

Production Assistants: 
Sara Farahat
Caleb Ruecker 

Photography:
Sara Sjol

Storytelling in Kalama

BRINGING BOOKS TO LIFE

KALAMA, WASHINGTON

“Reading gives us someplace to go when we have to stay where we are.” - Mason Cooley

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Work has begun on a new public mural by professional artist Tatyana Ostapenko in Kalama, Washington. The mural was designed to represent and highlight some of the magical wonders and fantastical journeys that await those who explore the books found inside the Kalama Public Library.

Kalama Washington is located 40 miles north of Portland, Oregon. With a population of nearly 3,000, Kalama offers small town values and charm. Envision Kalama is a non-profit organization in Kalama that supports projects that enhance the community, beautify the town, and provide educational experiences. Envision Kalama was founded in 2007 by a group of citizens who wanted community members to contribute to enhancing Kalama for now and for the future.

Artist rendering of proposed mural

Artist rendering of proposed mural

In 2019, Envision Kalama contacted the Portland-based non-profit Portland Street Art Alliance (PSAA) asking for assistance in facilitating the commissioning of a regional artists for mural projects in Kalama. PSAA presented an overview of their mural program, process, and past projects to Envision Kalama in the Winter of 2020. Working closely with the project team, PSAA created a large roster of regional artists recommended for a mural project of this scale and nature. Several bids were collected from considered artists, with Portland-based Ukrainian muralist Tatyana Ostapenko being selected by Envision Kalama. The project team worked collaboratively in developing the design and is now working to coordinate mural planning and preparation activities.

PSAA Executive Director Tiffany Conklin explains that “the quality of our shared public spaces speaks volumes about what we, as a society, believe to be important. Public art projects like murals not only bring more cultural vibrancy and interest to a place, but they also help ensure that everyone has the opportunity to experience art in their everyday lives.”

Mural work started Monday August 2 and will continue for about a week or so. Press is invited to sign-up for receiving updates about the mural painting timeline and opportunities for interviews with artist Tatyana Ostapenko and project partners.

Tatyana Ostapenko (Artist), a contemporary visual artist that creates history paintings that record the daily lives of people who usually don’t make it into official historical records. Tatyana uses images from her native Ukraine to speak about universal human experiences and evoke empathy and hope in the face of adversity. Tatyana was born and raised in Soviet Ukraine and currently lives in Portland, OR. She holds a BFA in Studio Practice from Portland State University. When she is not painting or staring out of her studio window, Tatyana is picking chanterelles in the mossy woods of the Pacific Northwest. Learn more about Tatyana, and see her paintings at https://tatyanaostapenko.com/

Portland Street Art Alliance (PSAA), a non-profit organization and network of advocates and artists who manage public art projects in the Pacific Northwest. PSAA has completed over 100 public and private art projects and commissions since 2012. This mural will be the third mural project PSAA has managed in Washington, and the first in the City of Kalama. More information: www.pdxstreetart.org

Envision Kalama, a non-profit organization in Kalama that supports projects that enhance the community, beautify the town, and provide educational experiences.

Sponsors: Envision Kalama, Kalama Public Library, Miller Paint

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Never Look Away

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First LGBTQ+ Community Mural in Portland

NORTH PARK BLOCKS, PEARL DISTRICT

“Never Look Away celebrates the beauty and struggle of queer people, declaring that queer people are here to stay, because we have always been here. Creation and resistance have been sisters throughout history. We must create what we want in the world alongside resisting that which others people and leaves them vulnerable to anger and violence.”   – Mural Production Team

The first of its kind, the new 120ft Never Look Away mural in Portland celebrates eight pioneers of the LBGTQ+ community. Marsha P Johnson, Kathleen Saadat, Rupert Kinnard, Lynn Nakamoto, David Martinez, Angelica Ross, Asa Wright, and Aydien Dowling. The mural is located at 720 NW Davis St in downtown Portland.

It was brought to life by artists Cassandra Swan (design lead), Kyra Watkins (portraits) and mural assistants Rachel Oleson, Tommie Mack-Davis, (aka, Nafsi), and Naomi Likayi.

Artist Kyra Watkins, painting the portrait section of the wall. Watkins painted all eight portraits.

Artist Kyra Watkins, painting the portrait section of the wall. Watkins painted all eight portraits.

This mural took 5 years to pull together, thanks to a team of three producers:

ZOE PILIAFAS
EXECUTIVE PRODUCER / SHE/HER

Zoe Piliafas has produced two iconic murals in Portland: The Fiercest Athletes by Jeremy Okai Davis and the Black United Fund Mural by Eatcho and Jeremy Nichols. For the past two years she has worked to produce the Historical Black Heritage Markers, five permanent 7ft massive art markers on Alberta Street. She believes that every person who walks around Portland should be represented and welcomed through narrative experiences that reflect their own existence.

RUBAN LAWRENCE
PRODUCER / HE/HIM

Ruban Lawrence has worked in software consulting for 12+ years, and has extensive experience in project management. As a brown queer man, there is great meaning for him in being able to use his professional skills to contribute to the queer rights movement by co-creating the Never Look Away mural.

CASSANDRA SWAN
ASSOCIATE PRODUCER / ARTIST / SHE/HER

Cassandra Swan is an illustrator and designer who strives to create positivity and human connection through art and design. She specializes in crafting compelling visual narratives and building community through art-based play. She loves to explore how our differences strengthen us when we work together and believes the future can only be built on diversity. Her work centers around creative play, expression, education and collaboration. Never Look Away has been an opportunity to couple creation with resistance, and to work across communities to create a future that welcomes and serves all Portlanders.

With a chance meeting years ago between Zoe Piliafas and LGBTQ+ activist, Kathleen Saadat , the concept sprang to life. “I’m going to be putting a mural up that’s going to have you on it along with some other significant community members from the LGBTQ community.” With that spark, Portland’s first LBGTQ+ community mural was born.

After five years, and with the help of a many different organizations, the mural has come to life. Piliafas was able to secure funding with the help of Pride Northwest, the City of Portland and most of all, in-kind contributions from the community.

Portland Street Art Alliance assisted the production crew in commissioning some of the artists, in addition to providing the team with logistical support, consultation, and painting supply loaners.

Portrait painter Kyra Watkins first worked with Portland Street Art Alliance last year during our Ladies Up mural series. After moving to Portland from Columbus, Ohio just over two years ago, Kyra has already made her mark on the Portland landscape. “This is perfect for me because portraits are what I do,” Watkins says, “It’s right where I feel comfortable and right at home so I’m really excited. And the cause means a lot to me so you know that’s divine planning I think.” Watkins stated to OPB in an article covering the mural project.

In addition to honoring the activists, Tanzania artist Tommie Mack-Davis (Nafsi), found a global meaning to the work; they explained how it’s still illegal to be gay in their homeland and that gay people face reprisals, beatings and murder.

Eventually, Piliafas plans to create educational materials mural that can be used in schools and handed out at walking tours. She hopes this project will spur greater conversation and provide historical acknowledgment for the local and national LGBTQ+ community.

RIBBON CUTTING

On August 20, 2021 the Never Look Away (@neverlookaway) mural was officially dedicated in a ceremony. August 20th was also honored with a proclamation from the Office of the Mayor as “Never Look Away Day” in Portland, Oregon.

The event featured an array of folx who helped make this mural possible and supported the massive undertaking. Speakers included Curator Zoe Piliafas, Producer Ruban Lawerence, mural honorees David Martinez, Asa Wright, Rupert Kinnard and Lynn Nakamoto and artists Cassandra Swan and Kyra Watkins . Speeches were made by Portland City Commissioners Carmen Rubio and Dan Ryan. Also in attendance were mural painting assistants, Rachel Oleson, Tommie Mack-Davis, and Naomi Likayi.

FEATURED IN THE MURAL

 



Marsha P. Johnson

Was an American gay liberation activist and self-identified drag queen. Known as an outspoken advocate for gay rights, Johnson was one of the prominent figures in the Stonewall uprising of 1969.

Kathleen Saadat

LGBTQ+ activist, Kathleen Saadat, helped organize Portland, Oregon's first gay rights march.

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Rupert Kinnard

Creator of the first African American LGBTQ comic book characters.

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Lynn Nakamoto

Nakamoto is a founding member of the Oregon Minority Lawyers Association and sat on the board of Porltand’s Q Center .

She is one of eleven openly LGBT state supreme court justices currently serving in the United States.

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David Martinez

A founding board member of Portland’s Q Center and also co-founded the Portland Latino Gay Pride, now known as PDX Latinx Pride.

Angelica Ross

An American businesswoman, actress, and transgender rights advocate. Founder and CEO of 'TransTech Social Enterprises', a firm that helps employ transgender people in the tech industry.

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Asa Wright

A Klamath/Modoc Tribal member that identifies as Two-spirit . In 2004 he founded the Portland Two-Spirit Society, joining the 32 Two-Spirit societies across the US and Canada.

Aydian Dowling

An activist, speaker, and YouTuber who started the clothing company Point5cc, which benefits the transgender community.

 

PARTNERS + SPONSORS

  • Pride Northwest

  • Miller Paint

  • Star Rentals

  • Really Big Video

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Moving on Up!

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The New Central Eastside Mural District Continues to Grow with 5 New Murals at All Service Moving

CENTRAL EASTSIDE , PORTLAND

5 new murals under the Belmont Viaduct completed in June 2021.

5 new murals under the Belmont Viaduct completed in June 2021.

The Central Eastside Mural District is even more vibrant as Portland Street Art Alliance (PSAA) and local Portland artists Naomi Likayi, NotSik, Hayden Senter, Pono and Habiba Abdul Rahim have completed a large-scale installation painted on the All Service Moving building at 66 SE Morrison, under the Belmont Viaduct. This project was completed with major support from the Central Eastside Together Community Grant Program.

In just the past two years, Portland Street Art Alliance has painted over 53,000 square feet of new murals in the Central Eastside Industrial District. With this initiative, PSAA aims to celebrate the unique creative spirit of the Pacific Northwest’s diverse communities, increase recognition of the importance of the arts in Portland, and further the City’s ambitions to foster accessible spaces for working artists.

Hayden working on his Union Pacific inspired mural at All Service Moving. Photo: Sara Sjol

Hayden working on his Union Pacific inspired mural at All Service Moving. Photo: Sara Sjol

Artists worked night and day for two weeks in June to paint these new murals, using a mix of spray paint and latex bucket paint, along with a 45’ boom lift and ladders. Portland Street Art Alliance has been working with building management and district representatives for several years in order to get the logistics in place to make this project happen, expanding the Mural District and enhancing Belmont Viaduct coordinator. 

Painting in progress in the Central Eastside. Photo: Sara Sjol

Painting in progress in the Central Eastside. Photo: Sara Sjol

With this project, PSAA also launched a new ongoing partnership with Ground Score Association, a peer-led initiative of the non-profit Trash for Peace. This special work program helps folks with housing insecurities gain access to paid work and job training opportunities. Laborers are assisting PSAA with wall preparation and base coat painting and getting paid a living wage for their work.

Habiba working on their first large-scale permanent mural in Portland. Photo: Sara Sjol

Habiba working on their first large-scale permanent mural in Portland. Photo: Sara Sjol

This five mural installation was supported by a PSAA-secured grant from the Central Eastside Industrial Council’s Central Eastside Together grant program. Central Eastside Together works to enhance the pedestrian experience, reinforce economic viability and promote Central Eastside’s unique identity through innovative and highly-responsive programs.

Completed murals by PONO and Naomi Likayi. Photo: Sara Sjol

Completed murals by PONO and Naomi Likayi. Photo: Sara Sjol

The goal of the Central Eastside Mural District is to create a world-class public art destination in the industrial heart of Portland. The vision of the Mural District includes: 1) empowering regional artists to take new risks and further develop their public practice and portfolios, 2) honoring the district's unique history and enhancing its identity as being a walkable public art destination, 3) preserving space for creative and cultural production in a rapidly changing urban neighborhood, and 3) placing Portland’s Central Eastside on the global map as a hub for innovative and grassroots public art programming.

Not Sik working on their new mural featuring wolves and rabbits. Photo: Sara Sjol

Not Sik working on their new mural featuring wolves and rabbits. Photo: Sara Sjol

With these projects, underrepresented artists from the Pacific Northwest are supported with project management assistance, permit procurement, painting supplies, and most importantly, livable-wage compensation from PSAA and project sponsors. At a time when Portland is experiencing accelerated redevelopment and demographic changes, especially in the booming Central Eastside, it is important to create and save spaces where artists from around the region can work, grow, and thrive. This initiative strives to ensure that street art is an integral part of the district’s identity as a hub for art innovation, makers, and culture-builders.

ABOUT THE WORK

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NAOMI LIKAYI
Ancestral Portal
@mungala_nao

“This mural is based on the first part of my thesis project at Portland State University, as a graphic design student. I wanted to mix my illustration style alongside Kongolese (Angolan/Congo) visual writing systems. These symbols come from ancient Kongolese religions that were meant to bridge communication between mankind's ancestry, creation, and the cosmos. In the mural, you can see six different symbols that represented a new beginning in my artistic practice. My illustration style is very abstract and figurative, so I wanted to carefully choose symbols that would visually mesh with my illustration style but had a lot of impact in terms of my narrative. The heavy influence of spirituality with these symbols and how I feel about the creative process is very connected.”

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NOTSIK
Vicious Cycles 
@notsikk

“This piece represents all the chaos and evil in this world, and how we are all just some rabbits trying to run, hide, and survive it all. There’s far too many wolves out there who are dying for the chance to eat your heart out.”



HABIBA ABDUL RAHIM
The Watchers: Keep One Eye Open
@habiba_abdulrahim_art

“Keep one eye open" is an idiom that I grew up hearing elders say; it was a reminder to always remain vigilant and watchful. This piece has been a reflection on the person that I want to become and how I am remembered  when I am gone. I want to be like the elders that I learned from; they were wise, nurtured, developed and guided, and anchored their families and community. I want to be remembered as someone who stood against injustice and oppression, who fought and never gave up, and was a "Watcher" over her community. May we all be Watchers over our communities.”

HAYDEN SENTER 
Seem To See 
@chairboy


“Just a glimpse into what I’m trying to find most days. Some sense of grounding to let my brain rest and explore something unfound.”



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PONO
Serpent And Centaur
@ponopinto

“This is an image in which the centaur could be any one of us, likely embroiled in our own personal struggles. The serpent loosely represents adversity and strife, perhaps a year’s worth. It’s not quite clear which one is winning the battle, but the centaur is prepared. Oddly enough, the idea isn’t necessarily related to astrology, even though I am a Sagittarius myself!”



The Art of Art Mini-Documentary Series by Kyle LaMontagne

SPONSORS

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.

PARTNERS

Thank you to our partners:

Central Eastside Together, Safety for All Teams (provided by NW Enforcement), Ground Score Trash for Peace, City of Portland Office of Community & Civic Life, Miller Paint, Metro Paint, Rose City Self Storage & Wine Vaults, Baby Doll Pizza, Star Rentals, Jupiter Next Hotel, The Painter Guys, Belmont Building LLC.

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Central Eastside History Mural

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Portland Street Art Alliance Expands the Central Eastside Mural District with New Mural Dedicated to the History of the Industrial District

CENTRAL EASTSIDE , PORTLAND

Photo: Sara Sjol, PSAA

Photo: Sara Sjol, PSAA

Portland Street Art Alliance (PSAA) worked with three lead artists (Devin Finley, Jeremy Nichols, and Dan Lee) and nearly 20 regional graffiti artists to paint a massive 12,000 square foot mural dedicated to the nautical history of the Central Eastside Industrial District of Portland. This project is part of the non-profit group's efforts to seed a world-class mural district in the Central Eastside. This mural can be found at 211 SE Yamhill St. Portland, OR 97214.

This colossal new mural was a partnership between PSAA and the Central Eastside Industrial Council (CEIC), the neighborhood business association, and with significant grants from Prosper Portland and the Oregon Arts Commission. CEIC secured a grant from Prosper Portland and contracted with PSAA for assistance managing and implementing this mural project. CEIC is also donating all of their staff time to support this district beautification and improvement project

A TEAM EFFORT

Muralists Jeremy Nichols, Dan Lee, and Devin Finley in front of a small section of the new mural. Photo: Tim Trautmann.

Muralists Jeremy Nichols, Dan Lee, and Devin Finley in front of a small section of the new mural. Photo: Tim Trautmann.

In May and June of 2021, three local artists, Jeremy Nichols, Devin Finley, and Dan Lee, had the opportunity to showcase their skills, painting a mural honoring this unique Portland neighborhood. Working closely with a team of professors from Portland State University, including Dr. Carl Abbott, famed Portland historian and Dr. Hunter Shobe, cultural geographer and member of Portland Street Art Alliance’s Board of Directors, PSAA gathered historical research to help inform the content of this mural.

Muralist Devin Finley works to paint a historic dockside view of the Central Eastside. Photo: Tim Trautmann.

Muralist Devin Finley works to paint a historic dockside view of the Central Eastside. Photo: Tim Trautmann.

Photo: Sara Sjol, PSAA

Photo: Sara Sjol, PSAA

HISTORY LESSONS

The mural design honors the history of the Central Eastside Industrial District and this stretch of the Willamette River. Specifically, the industrial and maritime history as a hub for shipping and commerce in the late 1800s. Included will be historic views of the Willamette River during the early industrial boom, spawning Chinook and Coho Salmon, flowing wapato, fishing nets, wooden ship hulls, buoys, anchors, and fishing piers. Carl Abbott explains that, “Willamette River shipping grew Portland from a straggling settlement to a major city. The docks, mills, and warehouses of the eastside were central to its industry and commerce in the 19th and early 20th century.”

STYLE WRITERS

Completed project with work from various graffiti artists adorning the bottom. Sara Sjol, PSAA

Completed project with work from various graffiti artists adorning the bottom. Sara Sjol, PSAA

Keeping true to their mission of supporting and advocating for writers and graffiti-style art, PSAA has also arranged almost 20 regional artists (based in Portland, Seattle, and Idaho) to paint a production along the bottom 10ft of the two main mural walls, along with the third loading dock side of the building. In this line up included: JOKER, MAWK, KANGO, GIVER, ABNR, DELAY, NOTES, QUE, DEPTHS, UTER, JAHDI, RITE, NIMBY, RASKO, OTHER, CEAD, NERD, FIBER, QUETZAL and ISREK.

These artists were selected from an open call to artists, and are among the best and most highly-respected writers in the Pacific Northwest. PSAA’s unique approach involves extensive community outreach and providing opportunities to underrepresented and diverse street artists. PSAA provides artists with the guidance, support, and supplies they need to create large-scale murals that engage with the larger community. These types of opportunities provide artists avenues to expand their skill sets, build their networks, and work portfolios.

A NEW PARTNERSHIP

Paint sprayer training by The Painter Guys for Ground Score workers.

Paint sprayer training by The Painter Guys for Ground Score workers.

With this project, PSAA also launched a new ongoing partnership with Ground Score Association, a peer-led initiative of the non-profit Trash for Peace. This special work program helps folks with housing insecurities gain access to paid work and job training opportunities. Laborers are assisting PSAA with wall preparation and base coat painting, and getting paid a living wage for their work.

The building that the mural is being painted on was originally owned by Herbert M. Clark Jr., and was built in 1953. It was a family-business called Holman Transfer Company; a warehouse and trucking facility. It was then leased to Nor-Air for decades until around 2000 when that company was acquired by the current tenant, Airefco, a wholesale distributor of heating, air conditioning and ventilation products.

“ The CEIC is proud to call PSAA a partner in the creation of the Central Eastside Mural District. A longtime center for urban manufacturing, Central Eastside businesses value the making, creativity and innovation that’s at the heart of this initiative. This new mural reflects the scope of our ambitions to bring colorful walls and artistic expression to the Central Eastside. ”
— CEIKC Executive Director, Kate Merrill

SPONSORS




Vernonia, On The Big Screen

PSAA Site Serves As Backdrop in New Movie

VERNONIA, OREGON

The Old Mill in Vernonia, Oregon sat empty and mostly unused for years. That is until six years ago when, with the owner’s permission, PSAA began coordinating artists to give the Old Mill in Vernonia a second life. Since then regional artists have created a gallery of art, breathing fresh energy into the old space.

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A few years ago, Oprah’s movie production company Harpo Films contacted PSAA through our friends in Vernonia asking for consultation and help filming at the site. PSAA wanted to ensure that most of the artwork, particularly long-standing pieces at the top, were saved and preserved.

PSAA worked with the crew to get them in contact with all the artists we could, to get their permission to be in the film and sent an expert team of Portland writers out there for about a week to help them spruce the place up at bit.

Many thanks to local artists and friends for their support in making this happen. The Water Man is out in theaters now. Check it out! A fantastical journey right in our own Oregon backyard.

PSAA is excited to announce a new partnership with the City of Vernonia (supported by Travel Oregon) to produce several large-scale murals downtown and a mural festival in late summer of 2021. More details on this new development soon!

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Song Bird at Mercato Grove

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Christian Téllez and Portland Street Art Alliance Paint a Massive Custom Mural

Mercato Grove , Lake Oswego

“Song Bird” in progress.

“Song Bird” in progress.

Mercato Grove, a new residential and retail destination at the intersection of SW Kruse Way and SW Boones Ferry Road in Lake Oswego, is now home to an impressive and expansive new mural titled “Song Bird”, an artistic collaboration between local non-profit Portland Street Art Alliance, muralist Christian Téllez, local creative agency Think Joule, and developer High Street Residential.

Mercato Grove blends a wellness-focused residential experience with a thriving local food scene unlike anything available outside the urban core. As part of their quest to establish this rising new destination, the creative team sought to enliven the outdoor spaces with beautiful, regionally-inspired art.

Think Joule and High Street Residential conducted an open call for proposals from regional street artists. The call: collaborate to design and install a massive 3,685 SF mural on 4 sections of exterior concrete walls, which are highly visible from the main parking garage entrance and directly face the windows of many of the apartment units.

“The scale and prominence of this mural added an extra challenge in contributing to the art direction of this piece. We wanted it to both make a statement and have broad appeal.”

– Jennifer Bryan, Creative Director, Think Joule

After a competitive proposal and evaluation process, muralist Christian Téllez of Portland was awarded this opportunity. Originally from Mexico, Christian is a licensed architect and accomplished artist with completed works in Oregon, Texas, and Puebla, Mexico. His background in architecture and interior design and extensive experience designing residential and commercial spaces, allow him to create unique and beautiful works that blend custom illustrations and refined details, as in this work.

Christian Téllez in his element.

Christian Téllez in his element.

“Song Bird” draws influences from local agriculture and seeks to connect the architecture of the site with the surrounding community. Christian incorporated native birds and flowers into the scene with a soaring central Bluebird and accompanying American Goldfinches and Steller's Jays, as well as evocative blooms of wild hyacinth, great white trillium and roses.

The soft, natural, and timeless imagery provides a scenic backdrop for residents and visitors alike and saturates the environment with beauty and personality. And a PDX airport inspired hanging garden currently being installed on the siding between the mural panels will further enhance the connection between art, architecture and the natural environment.

“Even in the very early planning stages, we knew we wanted to do something special with this project that both residents and visitors could enjoy and the mural played a key part. This collaboration with Christian, and the Portland Street Art Alliance, was instrumental in infusing urban artwork into a suburban setting, and we’re absolutely thrilled with the result.”

– Damin Tarlow, High Street Residential

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Commissioned by High Street Residential, the mural collaboration took 6 months and involved multiple project partners: Portland Street Art Alliance provided management and logistical support. Think Joule was responsible for creative art direction. Christian created the custom art and led installation. In addition to Christian’s specialized production expertise, the project also required support from a team of painting assistants, The Painter Guys, who were subcontracted to assist with wall preparation and painting.

The vision and execution are beyond what any of us imagined at the outset,” concluded Jennifer Bryan. “It was an amazing collaboration, and I really credit Christian with his ability to interpret design direction and the support of PSAA to move this exquisite mural from concept to concrete."

Téllez isn’t the only one serving up artistic talent; some of the city’s best chefs will be bringing their culinary creativity to life at Mercato Grove. Six esteemed Portland eateries from local restaurant group ChefStable are slated to open locations at Mercato Grove this summer, including Lardo, Grassa, Oven and Shaker, Lac St. Jack, Fills Donuts and the reboot of Portland’s beloved brunch destination, Tasty. A large outdoor pavilion invites locals and visitors alike to enjoy arts and eats in this vibrant new neighborhood.

Food and art lovers can experience the iconic new mural and delightful culinary offerings by visiting Mercato Grove at 4055 Mercantile Dr., Lake Oswego.

SPONSORS + PARTNERS

Vancouver's Heron Mural

Working in partnership with Holland Partner Group, PSAA commissioned muralist Blaine Fontana to paint a massive 1225 sq. ft. mural on the side of a new residential and commercial development in downtown Vancouver Washington called Coen & Columbia at 608 Washington St. This mural is located off the street, tucked away in a plaza between two apartment buildings.

Blaine Fontana at work at Coen & Columbia. Photo: Travel with Kyle.

Blaine Fontana at work at Coen & Columbia. Photo: Travel with Kyle.

Work on this 40 x 40 mural was done using swing stage scaffolding erected by NW Scaffolding, and took the artist team about one month to complete. The mural was painted using aerosol on acrylic background. Assisting Blaine on this mural were several notable muralists, Jeremy Nichols, David Rice and Chris Medema.

Muralists at work. Photo: Travel with Kyle.

Muralists at work. Photo: Travel with Kyle.

The mural was inspired by natural elements found in the Pacific Northwest, specifically the nearby Columbia River Gorge. The Columbia River Gorge mural highlights the protected wetlands around Vancouver featuring an elusive and massive Egret.

Persist Mural

PERSIST MURAL CELEBRATES BLACK WOMEN OF HISTORY

NORTHEAST PORTLAND

Portland Street Art Alliance (PSAA) has teamed up with muralist Jamaali Roberts (@jamjamart) to paint a new mural on Martin Luther King Blvd near Alberta Street in Portland, Oregon. The mural is entitled "Persist" and is a memorial and tribute to several black women who have helped shape equality in the workplace, schools, and legal systems across Oregon and the United States.

Image: Muralist Jamaali Roberts working on their largest mural to-date on MLK Blvd in Portland. PSAA Photographer: Sara Sjol

Image: Muralist Jamaali Roberts working on their largest mural to-date on MLK Blvd in Portland. PSAA Photographer: Sara Sjol

Jamaali Roberts is a designer, painter, teacher, curator, musician and crystal enthusiast. Jamaali studied painting at the Pacific Northwest College of Art and splits his time between Portland and his hometown of Atlanta, Georgia. His goal is to start an art-based healing center and teach workshops that use the body, mind, and materials to rise above self-doubt and nurture self-confidence.

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Jamaali’s new mural depicts portraits of Lucille Bridges and her daughter, Ruby Bridges, who together broke the race barrier in 1960 in New Orleans, by being the first black student to desegregate an all-white school. Following the Brown vs. the Board of Education case in 1954, the William Frantz Public School ushered in a new wave of desegregated education. This was not an easy process. Ruby and her mother were harassed to the point that local police Marshals were required to escort them to and from school everyday.

These moments were famously documented in the powerful photographs that to this day are iconic of the 1960s movement for equality and social justice. Outside of school, Ruby’s immediate family faced fallout and disdain from their community, losing their jobs and even property because of the desegregation crisis. Ruby and her mother, however, persisted, they attended school even facing this harsh backlash. Now, children all over the United States can go to school with students from all different nationalities and backgrounds. Lucille Bridges, passed away after successfully giving her four children the education she was denied as a youth due to helping her parents work in the fields immediately after 8th grade. Lucille Bridges passed away of cancer in her New Orleans home in November of 2020.

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On the right side of the mural is a portrait of Senator Margaret Louise Carter, the first African-American woman elected to the Oregon State Legislature. Senator Carter also worked to change the way of life for Blacks and all Oregonians. Senator Carter, who was also born in Louisiana, traveled to Portland with her family in the 1960's, received her degrees from Portland State University and Oregon State University and later joined the Oregon Senate in 1983 only to endure harsh racism and sexism from her comrades. But, she persisted through the insults and as a Senate member, Carter pushed a pro-education agenda that included the creation of regional skills-training centers as well as summer programs for kids. During her 23 years of service, Senator Carter also passed a bill declaring Martin Luther King Jr. Day to be an official holiday in Oregon. Senator Carter is currently retired from her senate duties, but remains an active community member, behind the scenes supporting colleagues in sports, politics, and education.

“Besides all hailing from Louisiana, these women have shown me what it means to be persistent against the odds. During this painting process, I had to persist through challenges of mind and body, excitement and fatigue, and even the occasional harasser. Ideas had to shift in order to arrive at the image you see today and I am proud of this piece, my largest ever. In my own life I have dealt with racism in school and racists in Portland, too; yet, I could not imagine the emotional weight on these women shoulders during their clashes with highly agitated and violent white people. As an honor to their struggles and accomplishments as humans and mothers, this mural visually places these women on a plane of existence 17 feet higher than that of base-level ignorance. These women look at the reading youth in the mural and out at us from a higher plane of wisdom, grace, and compassion.”

- Jamaali Roberts

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Jamaali worked closely with the PSAA team and with the new building owner, Jane Paulson, and her colleague, Caprese in designing the mural and preparing for all the logistics that go into mural making. Jane purchased the building in 2020 and is working to renovate it to be used as a Pickleball Court. She wanted to not just put a fresh coat of paint on the exterior, she wanted to do something to give back to the local community and support working artists at the same time.

“PSAA’s team always had my back and made sure I was safe, hydrated, and prepared for the elements. Thanks to all my “ground control;” my ladder holders and mural visitors. Thank you to Danish for your help painting the text. Thanks to Maquette from Alberta Art Works and Jon Stommel for lending me large sturdy ladders. Thanks Daniel, Mad, and Ken for putting me up. Thanks to all the random people who honked at me in support of the work.”

- Jamaali Roberts

PARTNERS + SPONSORS

Jane Paulson, Building Owner
Miller Paint, Supply Sponsor

Central Eastside Mural District

The Viaduct Arts initiative brings vibrant community art to the streets of the Central Eastside Industrial District.

CENTRAL EASTSIDE MURAL DISTRICT

A key part of Viaduct Arts is learning together. For both a non-profit and the participating artists, we stretch and grow our skills and portfolios to new heights. In 2020 artists, Derek Yost, GATS, and Galen Malcolm provided artists with mentorship…

A key part of Viaduct Arts is learning together. For both a non-profit and the participating artists, we stretch and grow our skills and portfolios to new heights. In 2020 artists, Derek Yost, GATS, and Galen Malcolm provided artists with mentorship through mural painting and logistics.

Working closely with community partners, Portland Street Art Alliance has worked for several years to “seed” a new mural district in Portland’s Central Eastside Industrial District (CEID). The goal of the Viaduct Arts initiative is to promote more inclusive engagement and access to public art-making in the city.

Thanks to grant support from the Oregon Community Foundation’s (OCF) Creative Heights Grant, in the summer of 2020 PSAA launched the Viaduct Arts initiative, bringing new five large-scale murals to the walls beneath the Hawthorne and Morrison Bridge Viaducts, all by diverse artists Oregon-based artists.

In 2021, PSAA’s work in the Central Eastside Mural District continues. Grant funding for two additional large-scale murals under the Belmont Viaduct has been provided by the Central Eastside Industrial Council and Proposer Portland.

The second phase of the mural district welcomes a new unique partnership between PSAA and several local homeless service organizations. These partnerships are being supported by grant funds awarded from the Oregon Arts Commission and the National Endowment for the Arts. The goal of these new partnerships is to engage with and help folks living on the streets of the Central Eastside. Working with local service partners, PSAA will provide homeless community members with access to paid work and training opportunities in mural-making activities happening in the district.

“Viaduct Arts aims to center voices not often represented in Portland’s public art landscape. Fundamental to the success of this project is providing and preserving equitable access for artists across Oregon to push their creative limits and make their voices heard in urban public spaces.”

The Viaduct Arts initiative also strives to address social and geographic disparities, specifically when it comes to gaining access to large-scale outdoor painting opportunities in the city. Therefore, Viaduct Arts outreach focuses on working with artists who identify as being a part of underrepresented communities (BIPOC+, LGBTQ, Women, Rural, Disabled, etc.).

CENTRAL EASTSIDE INDUSTRIAL HISTORY

As Portland experiences accelerated redevelopment and demographic changes, there is an increased urgency for the creation of spaces that welcome artists to work, grow, and thrive. The Central Eastside Industrial District (CEID) is long-time “industrial sanctuary.” In the early 1900s, thanks to the fertile Willamette Valley, Italian immigrants established fruit and vegetable wholesale distribution and transportation networks.  This new riverside industrial district became known as “Produce Row.” At the heart of this historic industrial area, are two parallel loading dock streets - 2nd & 3rd Avenues. These thoroughfares transect four viaducts - under the Hawthorne and Morrison Bridges that create deep cavern-like spaces cutting through the Central Eastside. This unique environment creates opportunities for large-scale artwork. With recent changes in zoning, and increased interest in development, this area is rapidly changing. Viaduct Arts aims ensure that street art remains an essential element of the district and future development.

“SEEDING” PUBLIC ART IN CEID

In 2019, PSAA hosted an open call inviting artists across the state of Oregon to apply for a spot in the muralist line-up. PSAA formed a selection committee consisting of prominent members of the local arts community, community advocates, and curators. With the help of community partners and news outlets, PSAA received nearly 200 applications from artists from around the state of Oregon. Five Oregon-based artists were invited to participate in the 2020 launch of the Viaduct Arts initiative.

PSAA is now working with the Central Eastside Industrial Council and Proposer Portland to expand the new mural distinct, with several new viaduct mural sites planned for late 2020 and the summer of 2021.

Street art has long been an important and visible part of the Central Eastside, contributing to it’s uniquely innovative and gritty character. Street art enriches everyday life, helps to build a city's identity and fosters a sense of place and pride in our community.

NEW MURALS COMPLETED IN 2020

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MEET THE ARTISTS

OLIVER CASILLAS | TALENT, OR

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66 SE Morrison St

Oliver Casillas is a Mexican-American artist living in Talent, Oregon. Oliver has studied the arts since a young age, immersing themselves in painting, sculpture and ceramics early. Born in Guadalajara in 1995, Oliver attended school in Guadalajara, Mexico and later university in Namur, Belgium, living also in Los Angeles, and moving later to Talent where he rediscovered his passion for art. For the past two years, Oliver has now dedicated himself exclusively to art and tattooing. Oliver is the artistic manager for a project named "We Art Here," which uses art to raise awareness about social struggles, environmental stewardship, and movements of protest. Oliver aims to expand his public art practice in the Pacific Northwest, painting murals in urban areas where it will make the most impact, support collective identity building, and improved quality of life for neighbors.

Oliver Casillas | SE Water & Belmont Avenues

Oliver Casillas | SE Water & Belmont Avenues

“My mural “What Keep us Together” will be inspired by the iconic portion of land shared by Mexico and the United States - the Sonora Desert. This mural aims to depict the shared nature among them, the purity, and reality behind skin colors, languages, ways of thinking, and religions. In other words, behind the human being. It is an invitation to think outside of our boxes and realize what binds and keeps us together. ”
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MARIA RODRIGUEZ | PORTLAND, OR

1430 SE Water Ave

Maria Rodriguez is a Mexican-American illustrator and muralist. Currently based in Portland, Oregon but originally from Los Angeles their work explores themes of identity and culture while also creating work that is playful and lighthearted. Maria studied at the Pacific Northwest College of Art, focusing on editorial illustration.

“Without Indigenous, Latinx, and POC farm workers, we would not have the food on our tables. Many of the foods in our fridges have a story behind them and I’d like to show gratitude and appreciation to the many who work tirelessly and face things one should not have to, to merely survive. With this mural I’d like people to both face that reality and think about ways they can show appreciation for those who bring food to our tables. With the grant-awarded funds I receive, I will donate part of them to PCUN and Causa Oregon.”
Maria Rodriguez, SE Hawthorne & Water Avenues | Photo: @wiredforsound

Maria Rodriguez, SE Hawthorne & Water Avenues | Photo: @wiredforsound

 

CLOE ASHTON | PORTLAND, OR

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1420 SE Water Ave

Cloe Ashton is an illustrator living in Portland Oregon. Working in a wide variety of mediums her pieces speak to an activist spirit, veering from the low-brow whimsy to subversive. Cloe experimented with special reflective spray paint on the ghost bike. Shine a bright light or flash on it and see it glow!

“Activism can take many forms and can even be a celebration, but it is important to remember that the origins of those festivities are often dark events and that so many parties are actually memorials. [This mural represents] massive bike rides that normally occur throughout the month of June in Portland, a festival called Pedalpalooza. [In times like these] we have an opportunity to reflect on why we gather, what it means, and how we can make the streets safer.””
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FRANCISCO MORALES | PORTLAND, OR

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210 SE Madison St

Francisco Morales is a Latinx freelance illustrator and designer living in Portland. Originally from Los Angeles, California his work draws upon his experience being raised in LA and growing up as a first generation Mexican. Recently, Francisco produced and served as the Art Director for Doug Fir Lounge’s 15 year anniversary campaign. His practice focuses on primarily collaborating with clients and artists from underrepresented communities. Francisco has worked with local artists such as Y La Bamba, Orquestra Pacifico Tropical, DJs Noche Libre, Brown Calculus, Bocha and the Produce Organics hip hop label.

“Paradise is a mural that is inspired by the exchange of goods and culture between the US and Latino communities. Most of the objects depicted in the work have been brought to the US from countries south of the border. This exchange comes at high cost to Latino communities. These folks pick produce through back-breaking labor, live in low income areas, and move to this country in search of a better life searching for their own slice of ‘paradise.’ All of these elements are presented with a chain link fence backdrop to highlight that oftentimes there are barriers, whether physical or societal, that can keep folks from attaining these dreams or their own paradise.”
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NIA MUSIBA | PORTLAND, OR

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1510 SE Water

Nia Musiba is a multidisciplinary artist from Denver, Colorado now based in Portland. Her art is primarily centered around people, and her identity as both an African American woman and the daughter of a Tanzanian immigrant influence her work and her discovery of black history through an artistic lens. Whether through digital or physical mediums, community based art practices or her solo work, Nia’s goal is to create space for herself and for others that wouldn’t historically have a platform.

“This piece is all about flexibility and play. I was inspired by my youth, days spent in the sun with friends and family moving and stretching and growing. I integrated bright colors along with the green, yellow, blue and black of the Tanzanian flag. I wanted to pay homage to the exploration and curiosity we all get to experience as children, but also express the constant balancing act that I felt growing up Black in America, having one parent from Africa and one from the States. I also wanted to depict Black bodies in an undeniably fun way, because this kind of representation is important, especially in a place like Portland.”

WORKING WITH DISTRICT OWNERS

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DONATE A WALL

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Do you have a wall? Consider supporting a public art project. There’s lots of options.

Please email PSAA at info@pdxstreetart.org or fill out this form:

PROPERTY OWNER OR RENTER FORM

MEDIA COVERAGE

Featured
Oregon Arts Watch
Oregon Arts Watch
Fox12
Fox12
Venture Portland
Venture Portland
The Skanner News
The Skanner News
Bike Portland
Bike Portland
KPTV
KPTV
Fox12
Fox12
Portland Tribune, September 2019
Portland Tribune, September 2019
Portland Monthly
Portland Monthly
KOIN 6
KOIN 6
Willamette Week
Willamette Week
VAMONDE Portland
VAMONDE Portland

DONATIONS

Consider making a tax-deductible donation to support the Viaduct Arts initiative! All business donors who contribute $1,000 or more will become an “official sponsor” and recognized on this website, in marketing promotions, and on social media.

SPONSORS + 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.

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Project P.A.I.N.T

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Exploring Transformative Inclusion of Black, Indigenous and People of Color Artists in Portland

Written by: Maddy Silberger-Franek and Ameenah Carroll

Research by: Elena Ferry, Maddy Silberger-Franek and Ameenah Carroll

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This article presents findings from an ethnographic research project conducted through the Collaborative Design Program at Pacific Northwest College of Art (PNCA). This project was centered around how arts organizations can further foster inclusion of Black, Indigenous, People of Color (BIPOC) who are artists in Portland, Oregon. 

Artwork by Nia Musiba

Artwork by Nia Musiba

It is no secret that Portland is a very white place. The state of Oregon was founded on notions of white supremacy that are still reflected in the city today. Knowing that Portland can be a particularly challenging place for BIPOC artists to feel “at home,” we sought to have a better understanding of the pathways and barriers of inclusion BIPOC artists faced when trying to build community, enter into, or partner with arts organizations in the city. 

 

To gain a more nuanced view of this issue, we first spoke to Portland Street Art Alliance (PSAA), a non-profit arts organization that focuses on connecting street artists to mural opportunities in the city of Portland and beyond. PSAA provided insights into what their organization is already doing to further inclusion of BIPOC artists and connected the research team to street artists PSAA has worked with in the past. This informed our focus on the remaining research, which centered the experience of mostly street artists. The research team presented the findings of this study to PNCA and PSAA in December 2020. 

PSAA connected the research team with four Portland-based street artists. Additional study participants were identified using a snowball sampling approach. Personal community networks identified an additional eight BIPOC artists to interview, with two of these participants having worked at arts organizations. The research team conducted one-hour Zoom interviews with all participants.

Key Insights

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1. BIPOC artists struggle to find BIPOC-centered art spaces and opportunities. Many BIPOC artists had to create their own spaces in order to support each other. "Hopefully my friend ____ and I can start a community at our gallery as we're working in Portland. I'm excited for that." For many BIPOC artists, creating their own spaces helps artists not only feel safe, but provides supportive opportunities to share their art. This also helps BIPOC artists connect with other BIPOC artists in their communities.

2. Art organizations hypothesize that their lack of diversity is due to ineffective recruiting methods. Arts organizations need new methods of reaching out to communities. "We are in the process of changing our whole leadership model." Although changing leadership roles to include more people of color in art organizations is becoming a more prevalent topic of discussion, the process of these leadership role transformations is still infrequent. The connections between BIPOC artists and art organizations in Portland is crucial in order for these transformations to occur.

3. BIPOC artists are not represented or included in Portland galleries because the gallery culture is not accessible to newcomers. This is even more difficult for BIPOC artists trying to “break into” white-dominated galleries and show their work. BIPOC artists feel excluded because of how white-dominated the broader arts community in Portland is. "Conceptually my art is about being Chinese, Taiwanese, American and nonbinary. A reconciliation of being all of these ways of life and forms of thinking." Not often seeing themselves reflected in the art shown at galleries motivated participants to represent themselves, their community and their cultural identity in ways that were more accessible. By and large, participants expressed the need for a more inclusive gallery scene in Portland.

4. Arts education is not accessible financially to many BIPOC artists; however, an educational setting is the place many BIPOC artists reported finding a sense of belonging. This is due to the opportunities presented to artists through schools and feeling connected to other artists in a classroom setting. "I never went to school for art. I was accepted to PNCA, but it was in no way manageable for me. I walked up to PNCA with all these janky pieces of art. I wanted to be there, but I didn’t fit in at all. It made me realize the differences in education." Allowing more BIPOC artists, who have little to no formal art education, to become more included within art organizations in Portland is essential. Many of our research participants highlighted how they feel more art opportunities can be provided through educational institutions.

5. Many BIPOC artists have experienced racism when trying to share their art. "Someone spray painted on top of my mural once and I had to go out and fix it, and it wasn’t a big deal but it was wack. We need a lot of black and brown love and pride. That was an instance where the communication wasn’t there." Many BIPOC artists encounter some form of racism or prejudice during their everyday life experiences. This is especially noticeable when trying to share their art; from their public art being vandalized with racist slurs to feeling tokenized during art events. More focus to minimize the barriers surrounding race for BIPOC street artists in Portland needs to be required and prioritized.

Recommendations

Create a central hub for opportunities and resource sharing specific to BIPOC artists. This could be an effort for each individual art organization to have on their own website. Also, this could be through a broader collaborative effort on a popular and accessible social media platform. Having a central location for opportunities that specifically center BIPOC artists would allow for increased knowledge sharing that could be helpful in ensuring BIPOC gain access to opportunities that could lead to success. 

Flatten hierarchal leadership in arts organizations and increase representation of BIPOC in leadership roles. This would lead to increasing diversity and inclusion of BIPOC artists in arts organizations for multiple reasons. Reaching out to a community that one is a part of is more effective than doing outreach to a community that one is not a part of. There is no way to work around this reality. Participants expressed that shifting to less strict hierarchies within the organization is also necessary because currently higher-ups are siloed into their own roles, which effectively distances organization leaders from communities they want to work with.  

Dedicated gallery space for BIPOC artists. The gallery scene was an area in which many participants expressed feeling excluded from. The gallery scene in Portland was characterized as hostile to newcomers and white-dominated. It was hard for newcomer artists to get a “foot in the door,” and extra hard for BIPOC artists attempting to enter into a white-dominated art scene, where seeking inclusion could easily lead to tokenization and microaggressions from their white peers. BIPOC artists need access to the Portland gallery scene and need this to be a safe space to enter into. 

To increase engagement, look to places where disenfranchised artists are, such as community colleges. Along with this, host community workshops for reduced cost or free. Some participants couldn’t afford a traditional art school education. Making connections with spaces that are more accessible to low-income communities could increase art organization engagement from BIPOC artists.

Uplift spaces that are already BIPOC-centered. Many participants created their own spaces that centered BIPOC artists. There are many examples of these spaces around Portland, such as Shop Black Saturdays and Ori Gallery. One way to further foster inclusion of BIPOC artists is to dedicate resources to these spaces and amplify the efforts of BIPOC organizers already doing the work around Portland.

In conclusion, we found that involvement in arts organizations were a major tenet in BIPOC artists feeling included in the art scene in Portland. Whether in a school program, community art organization, gallery or other community art selling event, having a central space for community-building and networking was integral to many participants. Many participants were also already taking initiative to provide these spaces for their own communities. While many participants felt that they were included in the art community in Portland at the time of the interviews, they all shared the experience of going through a period of time in which they struggled to feel included in the art scene here. The time period in which participants sought inclusion in the art scene is also when many experienced tokenization and microaggressions through being pushed into white-dominated spaces where these behaviors often proliferate unchecked. Arts organizations could seek to reduce the gap that many BIPOC artists experienced before they found community in Portland. In this article, we provided some suggestions for ways in which art organizations could reduce the gap experienced by BIPOC artists, and further foster inclusion in their own organization.