Northern Fauna Mural

Behold the Northern Fauna Mural. This isn’t just paint on wood. It’s a story whispered in cedar. A story of intricate V-shapes. These shapes create an optical illusion. They mimic feathers. This wasn’t just any commission. It was created in 1974 for the Minneapolis American Indian Center. The artist George Morrison. He was from near the Grand Portage reservation. He studied art in Minneapolis and New York City. He was a leading abstract expressionist. Morrison’s vision was to make the art accessible. He wanted it large-scale and unapologetically Indigenous. The mural was initially unnamed. Morrison himself suggested “Turning the Feather Around: A Mural for the Indian”. Years later restoration was needed. Every single cedar board. Over 700 of them were carefully removed. They were documented photographed and mapped. The boards were cleaned. New interlocking panels were created for reinstallation. Now the mural shines. The sun hits it. Light and dark contrast beautifully. It’s striking. The restoration was a significant undertaking. It was a community effort. Artists and conservators collaborated. They ensured the mural’s longevity. They preserved the artist’s intent. They also preserved a significant piece of Minneapolis’s cultural heritage. The Northern Fauna Mural stands as a testament. A testament to Indigenous art. It is also a testament to community collaboration. The mural stands as a symbol of pride. A symbol of resilience. It continues to inspire and educate. It’s a legacy. It is a legacy for future generations. This beautiful art is part of the Minneapolis American Indian Center’s renovation. It’s more than a mural. It is a piece of living history. A story told in wood. A story of feathers and community. It’s a must-see.