Downtown building becomes blank canvas for new art walls

An alley behind a downtown building is becoming a new place for artists to share their work.

The art walls project was inspired by Jaden Brunz, a teen artist who connected with Mayor Paul TenHaken last year after he got in trouble for painting graffiti-style art in a bike path tunnel.

TenHaken recognized his talent, commissioned a piece of art from Brunz and began working with him on a concept for a public wall where “‘we can allow artists like me … to do our art without getting in trouble,'” TenHaken quoted Brunz. “That sounds great, but trying to find a place where you can do that is challenging.”

The relationship was highlighted nationally by CBS News.

It took more than a year, but city arts coordinator Maren Engel was able to work with the owners of the 300 Building at Sixth Street and Dakota Avenue to use a wall on the east end of their building accessible off Sixth Street.

“We obviously can’t do something like this on city property,” TenHaken said. “We had to find a private sector partner who was willing to do something like this on their own property and saw the artistic value in it.”

For the 300 Building, “we are thrilled to be part of this art installation and to see it come to life right here on our building,” said Destiny Southern, who handles marketing and communications. “We knew it was something special to have the opportunity.”

She sees it as a place to support “energy and creativity” in downtown Sioux Falls while allowing artists to express themselves.

“It’s exciting to be part of something that uplifts both artist and our downtown community.”

Brunz and local artist Alex Lunstra are creating the first pieces on the wall.

Washington Pavilion Management Inc. will oversee approving artists to paint work there. A application will be evaluated by a community, and artists can submit their ideas for free beginning now.

“It’s going to be a living, breathing wall,” said Madelyn Grogan, director of museums and education. “We want it to change. We want it to feel fresh.”

There will be space available in addition to where the first two artists are painting.

Artists are responsible for their own materials but can receive sponsorships. Norberg Paints sponsored the initial murals.

“I’m really looking forward to seeing what happens with this art wall,” TenHaken said. “I love what art can do for a community. … I love to see how the arts have really grown and flourished in our community.”

To learn more and apply to be part of Art Walls, visit here.