River-Wash at Little Mekong Exhibit Begins

Yuwadee Lor, owner of Thai Cafe, washing away "grief."
photo by Jonee Kulman Brigham, Full Spring Studio
Part of the River-Wash at Little Mekong exhibit

The River-Wash at Little Mekong exhibit began Sunday, September 15th, with the first set of posters on display and the the storm drain stenciling completed in the morning as St.Paul Open Streets started at 11 am, bringing people on foot and bike to enjoy University Avenue which was closed to car traffic from Hamline to Marion Streets.

Here's the basics: 

What: River-Wash at Little Mekong Exhibit 

When: Starting September 15 through November 15, 2013, open anytime 

Where: In Little Mekong Business and Cultural District  along University Avenue between Mackubin and Galtier Streets 

Summary: “River-Wash at Little Mekong” engages the people behind storefronts with the stormwater below the street —connecting Little Mekong to the Mississippi River. Participating business owners display a poster in their storefront showing an encounter where they mark a watering can and water-paint the sidewalk to answer two questions: "What do you want to flow in to this place?" and "What do you want to wash away?" Then, washing the sidewalk, their hopes and concerns flow into the storm drain, to water trees and be carried by the  river, a healing symbol. In turn, the human role in river health is expressed by marking storm drains with the St. Paul stormwater stencil. Artist, Jonee Kulman Brigham of Full Spring Studio, collaborated with Friends of the Mississippi River, Asian Economic Development Association, and the City of St. Paul. The project is supported by Irrigate. More businesses to come in September. See river-wash.blogspot.com