New Portable Mural Program Aims to Unite Historic Northeast Kansas City Neighborhoods
Amidst the urban landscape, a vibrant fresh perspective is taking shape, aiming to galvanize communities and celebrate the rich history of the Historic Northeast neighborhoods in Kansas City. The Northeast Kansas City Chamber of Commerce, in conjunction with local artist Frederick Crawford, kicks off a Portable Mural Program as an extension of their annual Summer Mural Program.
Unity in Diversity
This innovative initiative invites seven neighborhoods in the area to submit their choices for iconic individuals or symbolic collages for representation in the murals. These portable murals, painted onto 55-gallon metal barrels, are designed not just to be visually appealing but also to instill a sense of unity and connection across Northeast communities.
Rebecca Koop, Events Director of the Northeast Chamber, expressed optimism about the project, “It’s going to be more of a small, portable monument,” she said. The idea is to let the individual neighborhood communities decide on the visual representation, usage, and placement of these barrels within their boundaries.
A Canvas for Communal Recognition
The chosen figures could be historical figures significant to each neighborhood or a collage of multiple persons. They will be rendered in full color or black and white, depending on the community’s preference.
Crawford, a Kansas City native, boasts a vibrant portfolio that reflects his deep engagement with the community. His artistic flair is seen at local venues like the Economic Growth Gallery pop up events and Sala De Arte, with depictions of local Kansas Citians and Chief’s football players. Crawford’s recent work included a project showcasing local jazz musicians for the 18th & Vine Jazz District.
Beyond Independence Avenue
Typically concentrated on Independence Avenue, the Summer Mural Project is branching out into the residential communities. This initiative aims to augment the aesthetic environment while offering a significant nod to the pivotal figures and moments in the community’s history.
The seven fortunate neighborhoods to witness this fusion of creativity and community spirit are Scarritt Renaissance, Pendleton Heights, Indian Mound, Lykins, Independence Plaza, Sheffield, and Columbus Park, with the deadline for submissions set for April 12. The projects are hoped to be installed by the end of Fall 2024.
Uniting Neighborhoods, One Mural at a Time
Art has always been a potent medium for communication, uniting disparate communities and cultures. In these times of increasing isolation, endeavors such as the Portable Mural Program are a breath of fresh air, injecting a dash of color and solidarity into the urban landscape.
As the neighborhood inhabitants witness the transformation of simple metal barrels into vibrant artworks, it will not only beautify the local environment but also provide a platform to acknowledge and respect the shared history and social fabric of the Historic Northeast.
