You are invited to help transform a graffiti-plagued building with your neighbors this weekend. Sala De Belleza, 1837 East Lake Street (between Longfellow and Cedar) will be the site of mural #2 in the year-long mural project underway in the Corcoran neighborhood. Stop by Saturday (9/22) or Sunday (9/23) between 11:00 am and 4:00 pm, and be sure to wear painting clothes if you plan to paint. Extra ladders and saw horses are welcomed, and all other supplies will be provided. Stick around on Sunday for a celebration of the new mural, tentatively scheduled for 4:00 pm.

The project aims to demonstrate to participants and neighbors the transformative power of art, and to replace destructive behavior such as graffiti vandalism with authentic expressions of identity. Muralist Elise Kyllo will be leading painting and design activities. A long-time volunteer at In the Heart of the Beast Theater and its May Day Parade, Elise brings over eight years experience working with young people to the project. In 2006, she led the efforts of 40 neighbors to mural the 34th and Cedar Shell gas station.

Support is provided by the Metropolitan Regional Arts Council (MRAC) through an appropriation by the Minnesota Legislature. Paint is supplied by the Valspar Foundation.