This mural, located on a vibrant corner in the ethnically diverse Bayside neighborhood of Portland, was designed by USM Artist-in-Residence Muhsana Ali in 2016.  The configuration with footprints spiraling out from its nucleus emphasizes humanity’s common origins.  The colors and wave-like forms that emerge from the spiral emphasize diversity and the various paths we take.  Ali is an internationally-recognized artist based in Senegal who works in many media to create conceptual community-centered art.

 

The project was organized by the USM Artist-in-Residence program in collaboration with the School of Social Work and Coffee by Design. Muhsana Ali and Dr. Paula Gerstenblatt taught a class that created an opportunity for USM students and community members to work together.  As a group they gave voice to the experiences of living and working in East Bayside through the collaborative creation of the mosaic mural.

 

Over one hundred USM students and several hundred East Bayside community members participated in the mural project. The artist and her collaborators adhered glass paintings to the wall along with cut mirror, tiles, ceramic pieces, and a mixture of pigmented concrete and sand. Special mention is given to Senegalese artist, Amadou Kane Sy, Ali’s husband and colleague, who assisted in the creation of the mural. Special thanks to USM art alumna Mia Bogyo and USM art intern Kayla Frost, as well as to all those who worked on the mural.

 

This project could not have been completed without the generous contributions of Coffee by Design, Redfern Properties, the USM Office of the President, the Running with Scissors artist community, an anonymous community donor, and all those who donated materials.

 

Carolyn Eyler, USM Director of Exhibitions and Programs