"My Story, Your Story, Our Story"

GoodSpace Mural @ Anoka-Ramsey Community College

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While pursuing my Associate of Fine Arts at Anoka-Ramsey Community College, I had the incredible opportunity to be a mural mentee for a 1,000 sq ft mural designed by Greta McLain and GoodSpace Murals, based in Minneapolis, from 2019 to 2020. As part of the arts program at the college, students were invited to submit their artwork for consideration in the mural project, which focused on hands and self-portraits. I submitted my self-portrait, and I was thrilled when it was chosen to be included in the mural.

 

As a mural mentee, I assisted with gathering feedback from students about the issues they felt were important regarding the school. I also participated in underpainting clinics. When we were instructed to stay home and shelter in place in the spring of 2020, the production of the mural continued. I was given two panels containing my portrait to take home, paint, and then return to GoodSpace. Since my family was also at home, I decided to involve my husband and children in painting the mural.

 

Once the mural panels were installed on the "bulge" wall inside Anoka-Ramsey Community College, additional painting was required to cover some unfinished areas and add final touches. The mural mentees were invited to come in and paint these sections while maintaining social distance. I had the chance to complete my portrait on the wall, along with other areas of the mural. 

 

The "My Story, Your Story, Our Story" mural is a vibrant, inclusive, and beautiful addition that transforms a once dull and colorless part of the school. Its impact will resonate with students who see it for years to come, and I am proud to have contributed to its journey to the wall.

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