I worked with Tori Hong to install this 40-ft mural on the Columbus Ave overpass on the Midtown Greenway. We connected with over 100 renters in the Powderhorn Park Area to inform the mural. Overwhelmingly we heard fears of rising rents, few housing options, and people feeling powerless over choices concerning in their homes.
We chose to showcase renters engaging in activities we heard make them feel connected and rooted in their homes. Renters told us that things like gardening, sharing resources, and cooking in community all make them feel like their rental homes are truly home. Underneath the portraits is information about the forces that renters of color are fighting including rising rents, lack of affordable options, and dis-proportionate evictions.
The mural features these South Minneapolis residents and renters who graciously represented our diverse community: Hawa, Sophea & Yves, Jared, Joanna & Irina, and Ixel.
This work is funded by the CURA Artist Neighborhood Partnership Initiative, supporting artists of color create work based on specific community issues.
