HomeMy WebLinkAbout07-10-2024 Arts & Culture Commission PacketHastings Arts and Culture Commission Agenda
July 10, 2024
6:00 p.m. – City Hall Volunteer Room
1. Call to Order
2. Approval of Agenda
3. Approval of Minutes – June 12, 2024
4. Administrative Update – Discussion on Collection of Email Addresses - Lee
OLD BUSINESS
5. Subcommittee Updates
a) Policy & Procedures – No updates
b) Finance & Fundraising – N/A
c) Outreach & Communications – Humphrey & Tribe
6. Recap of June 30th Event - Read
7. Fall Event Naming Discussion – Tribe
8. Fall Event Update
a) Performers – McCoy & Read
b) Plein Air – Tribe & Read
9. Electrical Box Update – Hollenbeck (see attachment)
a) Quotes on Signage and Sandwich Boards for Events – Read (see attachment)
10. Public Art Map - Hollenbeck
NEW BUSINESS
11. RFP Response – Read (see attachment)
12. Hastings City Hall – Art Collection – Master List (see attachment)
13. Recap of Action Items
14. Announcements
15. Adjourn
Page 1 of 6
Hastings Arts & Culture Commission Meeting Minutes
Wednesday June 12, 2024 – 6:00 PM
Hastings City Hall – Volunteer Room
1. Call Meeting to Order
Meeting called to order at 6:05 p.m.
Present: Commission Chair Hollenbeck; Vice Chair Read; Commissioners Humphrey, Tribe, Wagner;
Staff Representative Lee
Absent: Commissioners Maner and McCoy
Also Present: Alex Menke, Hastings Economic Development Coordinator
2. Approval of Agenda
Hollenbeck requested to add the following items to the agenda:
• Recap of Google arts event calendar (see Item 5.1)
• Thrive letter donation (see Item 11.1)
Commissioner Wagner motioned to approve agenda as amended; Vice Chair Read seconded.
Motion carried.
3. Approval of Minutes – May 8, 2024 Regular Meeting
Commissioner Tribe motioned to approve minutes as presented; Vice Chair Read seconded.
Motion carried.
4. Presentation by Alex Menke, Hastings Economic Development Coordinator
Menke discussed areas where economic development and the arts overlap. Currently there is not
much formally in place, which he feels is an oversight because the arts community is important for
cultural and economic aspects. He acknowledged the arts community needs different types of
support than other types of businesses. As a first step, he will come to Arts & Culture Commission
meetings as his schedule allows to stay plugged into what’s going on in the Hastings arts community
and help him get a better picture of what the city can do for economic development support. His goal
is to observe and engage in discussion with commissioners about potential programs or initiatives
that can be considered to help.
Menke said the HEDRA Board recently approved its strategic plan with no direct mention of arts. He’d
like to see business support programs that directly serve artists in the way they may need through
grants and loan programs.
Hollenbeck asked if Menke believes it valuable to put something into the strategic plan about the
arts. He said there is a definite benefit to adding arts as a subsection to the strategic plan and having
initiatives specified toward the arts community. He said some new developments have public arts
requirements and spoke of such benefits for the city’s Block 28 project, which is a HEDRA priority.
Since the first part of the Vermillion Street Corridor Redevelopment Plan is such a public area, having
a public art factor on the project would set the tone on that entire block of mixed used commercial
and residential spaces. He will research public art requirements policies some cities have for
Arts and Culture Commission June 12, 2024 Minutes
Page 2 of 6
developments (some cities do X percentage of total value of property, while others do base dollar
amounts based on valuations) and will work together with the commission to discuss a good policy
for Hastings to formalize. Menke said as he does research, he will share information with the group
for discussion. It is very important to him to use local artists and showcase the art. As Menke does
this research, Read offered to provide him with cities who are doing something similar.
Hollenbeck asked about the Block 28 project timeline. Menke said construction would ideally take
place in 2026, with the HEDRA Board eager to have construction occur at the same time as the
Highway 61 reconstruction project. He noted the city will have a lot of input on what type of
development it wants to see there since the city owns a majority of the land.
Hollenbeck asked how Menke foresees supporting artists in ways other than businesses. He stressed
that’s why coming to these meetings and getting further engaged with the arts community is so
important for him. With more traditional economic programs, artists may not qualify because they
are not in a permanent space. Revolving loans are designed for larger businesses that look at cash
flows, credit checks, etc. Arts are not always consistent with these factors. He would like to consider
retooling what we have or developing something new that is inclusive to people in the arts.
Hollenbeck shared that she has recruited artists in her downtown buildings and scaled the lease
accordingly, as rent and lease costs are a big barrier. She suggested the possibility of using money for
building owners to offset some of the rent costs, such as a scaled 5-year lease, with increments set in
the lease as it matured. Menke likes the idea of providing reimbursement toward building owners or
perhaps a property tax credit. He said the city is beginning its budgeting process soon and explained
that next year’s budget is tight because of the imminent need of building PFAS water treatment
plants. He added the option exists to repurpose existing funds for a trial basis. Hollenbeck said it’s a
great way to encourage artists to make art their full-time job. Read added it will also make the entire
city more vibrant.
Menke reported he and Hollenbeck have spoken about the desire to use 213 Ramsey, which is
occupied until November, for art classes and is happy to work with the commission to develop a
proposal for the space. The city currently owns the space and because it is real estate, is looking to
transfer to HEDRA ownership. The decision would then ultimately be up to HEDRA Board. Longer
term the site has potential for redevelopment, and the commission could site a more permanent
space if interested. Menke is wide open to ideas and discussions.
Hollenbeck asked about the Heart of Hastings Plan. Menke explained it is a long-range master plan
for the greater downtown area that was last done in 2004, but a lot has happened since then – such
as the Confluence, Lake Isabel Flats, and Artspace. Building and growth had to stabilize to see impacts
and needs in order to get input from the folks who live and visit to determine what else is needed but
currently not being serviced. Pending budget, they are looking at updating the plan. He would like to
make sure the commission voices are included in that discussion.
Hollenbeck added that arts in city development has been on the commission’s radar since its
inception, and the commission is excited to work with Menke.
Arts and Culture Commission June 12, 2024 Minutes
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OLD BUSINESS
5. Subcommittee Updates
a) Policy & Procedures
No updates
b) Finance & Fundraising
No updates
c) Outreach & Communications - Humphrey and Tribe
See Item 6 - Creative Convergence Recap
5.1 Recap of Google Arts Event Calendar (added)
Read is working to get secondary calendar access from Commissioner McCoy to help keep things
moving so artists and organizations are approved to post, since it was heavily promoted at the
Creative Convergence event. He is excited to get the calendar populated and ready to use in this busy
season.
6. Creative Convergence Recap
Commissioners Tribe and Humphrey offered a recap of the May 9th event, which had approximately
45 attendees. Consensus was the impactful event was the best one so far. All agreed the venue was
ideal as a welcoming, intimate, and private space.
Looking forward, commissioners stressed the outreach was vital and will continue to be a priority for
subsequent events, and focus will be placed on certain groups who did not attend to encourage them
to be more involved in the arts community.
Tribe liked the PowerPoint presentation and appreciated the time spent talking about what the
commission is doing. The group gave feedback on their thoughts and experiences to consider for
upcoming events such as logistics with chair configuration and concise programming, etc.
Read inquired about the survey at the event. Humphrey said there was low response turnout, and
they will somehow better integrate and improve with incentives and make hard copies available
versus QR codes only. There was discussion about collecting email addresses from attendees at such
an event for future contact. Staff member Lee will get clarification on this.
Tribe asked about choosing a host for the fall Creative Convergence event. She will reach out to BR4R
and ask if they are interested.
Hollenbeck brought up marketing for the upcoming Twelfth Night event and suggested the
commission send the event flyer to their contact lists. City Communications Coordinator Skelly has
posted it on the city’s website and social media channels. Read will add this event to the newly
created Google arts calendar.
Arts and Culture Commission June 12, 2024 Minutes
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7. Civic Arena Mural RFP Brief Update – Read
Read reported the RFP has been submitted to various organizations and posted on the city’s website
and is now out in the public sphere. September 1st is the due date for all materials to be submitted
by artists. Read said we will probably start to receive submissions in mid-August. He will push it out
via email to everyone he knows – artists who may know other artists who can share with their
networks – and encouraged all commissioners to do the same.
8. Classical Actors Ensemble for June 30 – Read
Read stressed that commissioners need to market this event. He suggested posting the flyer on social
media, sending it to friends, sharing far and wide. He noted that we are the only site in the southeast
metro where this group will be performing, which will hopefully be a draw.
Hollenbeck asked about hosting a literature table for other arts organizations. Read will provide table,
tablecloth and obtain the literature.
9. Fall Music Event (musicians in Vermillion Falls Park) – Draft name for event
a) Performers – Read will talk to McCoy about securing performers. Wagner said she will help
with this.
b) Plein Air – Tribe said Jeremy, who was at the Creative Convergence, is happy to participate.
Artist Dave Youngren has also agreed, and Hollenbeck will touch base with him. Read has not
yet reached out to the University of River Falls. Humphrey will ask Sam St. John if she is
interested and noted that Red Wing just did a plein air event and suggested we could reach
out to those artists.
Tribe recommended commissioners come to the next meeting with suggested names for the event so
marketing and communication can begin. Humphrey offered to create a flyer once a name is secured
for the event.
10. Electrical Box Update – Roadside Park
Hollenbeck shared information that artist Jessie Eckroad provided for the electrical box painting
project including a project plan, images that represent what she is envisioning, and questions for the
commission and city. The project includes a paint-by-number concept where Eckroad will draw
outlines of images on the electrical box and invite the community to sign up for timeslots to paint.
Even though the job was supposed to be completed earlier, community involvement makes this a
better option. Suggested dates for the project are August 3 and 4. Hollenbeck will ask Eckroad to
draft a contract.
Tribe suggested this event would be a great opportunity for the commission to provide refreshments
in support.
Arts and Culture Commission June 12, 2024 Minutes
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Commissioners discussed the sign-up process for the event. The suggestion was made for Skelly to
create a Signup Genius where interested parties can register for the event because the city is in a
better position to promote and manage this. Tribe suggested Eckroad choose a backup date in case of
rain and noted Signup Genius has an email function that would be able to handle that change should
it arise. Hollenbeck will speak with Skelly about this undertaking.
Hollenbeck shared that Eckroad inquired about event signage on Highway 55. Read suggested using a
sandwich board with generic “Event Here” text and asked if the Parks Department has something like
that we could borrow. Hollenbeck will reach out to Paige in the Parks Department. Discussion led to
continual use of such signs by the commission and purchasing branded signage. Read will contact
Graphic Design to get quotes.
Read made a motion for the commission to spend up to $500 on branded generic corrugated plastic
signage and sandwich board for events. Second by Wagner. Motion carried.
NEW BUSINESS
11. Public Art Map – Hollenbeck
Hollenbeck reported she was at a Tourism Bureau meeting where the idea was introduced to create
an art walking map using Google maps with pins where art pieces are located. The commission would
be responsible to provide and maintain brief text descriptions for each piece of art. They discussed
the art pieces to include and whether there should be distance boundaries for the tour. It was
decided the tour should include all sculptures and murals in the downtown area, as well as the Dale
Lewis Sculpture Garden up the hill on Highway 42. Wagner reminded there are e-bike rentals offered
at the Confluence, so we could include art that is further from downtown, like the sculptures at
Linear Park located on the bike loop.
Commissioners agreed they would like to participate in this project.
11.1. Thrive Donation Letter (added) – Barb moved this before item 11.
Hollenbeck shared a letter from THRIVE announcing a $1,500 donation to the Arts & Culture
Commission as they disperse funds to other organizations that are fulfilling their mission of diversity,
inclusion, and equity. She opened discussion on how commissioners may want to spend the funds to
honor the way in which THRIVE wants them spent.
Hollenbeck suggested connecting with a Native American artist to paint the electrical box located
under the bridge (near sea turtle sculpture) as a way to showcase symbolic Native American art, be
inclusive, and generate thought and discussion around the highly visible art piece.
Another suggestion was putting funds toward the Lake Rebecca area discussed in the city’s master
plan. There are opportunities there as well.
Arts and Culture Commission June 12, 2024 Minutes
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12. Recap of Action Items
• Hollenbeck
o Contact Jessie Eckroad about proposal for electrical box painting event
o Talk with Dawn Skelly about SignUpGenius for the electrical box painting event
o Connect with Paige about generic event sign for event on the 30th
• Read
o Graphic Design for price quotes on signage
o Talk with Ryan about Google calendar access
o Email University of River Falls regarding musicians for fall event
o Take watermark out of logo
• Tribe
o Contact Jeremy to confirm commitment for plein air painting event
13. Announcements
• BR4R Juneteenth event cancelled
• Maker’s Market tomorrow – 30 artisan members, most within Dakota County, held from 5:00-
8:30. Food trucks will be on site. (Read will go and talk to vendors about Rivertown Days.)
• Twelfth Night – June 30th
• Black Dirt – Cinderella in July
• Rivertown Days – July
Humphrey said she reached out to the school superintendent about the grant opportunity
commissioners discussed at the doelast meeting. The superintendent is interested in working
together to pursue. This prompted discussion about the grant, which is due July 12. Because there
are no specifics to sell the idea, commissioners decided to pause applying for this grant
opportunity until next year when the commission will have had more time to continue to work
with the school district and establish a track record for a more feasible plan. Read went through
grant criteria and commissioners made the decision to table until next year (for funds to be used
the following year). Humphrey suggested the THRIVE donation monies could possibly be used to
fund the upcoming year’s Indigenous Peoples’ Day celebration at the school district.
14. Adjourn
Vice Chair Read motioned to adjourn at 7:35 p.m. Seconded by Commissioner Tribe. Motion carried.
The next Arts and Culture Commission meeting will be held on Wednesday, July 12 at 6:00pm in the
Volunteer Room at City Hall.
Hastings Community Paint-by-Number Project UPDATE 7/3/24
Bodacious Badger Designs | Artwork by Jessie Eckroad
Jessie.eckroad@yahoo.com
320-296-2588
Location: Pickle ball courts at the corner of Hwy 55 and 11th Street
Surface: Steel electrical utility box | Dimensions: 27” x 60” per side (4)
Materials: High-quality, exterior-grade, water-based paint with graffiti-proof coating
Project Summary:
In an effort to provide an accessible art opportunity for the community, I’m proposing the following: The
design for the utility box will be in the style of a paint-by-number, which will be split into sections, 32
total – 8 per side with dimensions 13.5” x 15.” I will outline the shapes of the design and number each
according to paint color. Community members would then sign-up to paint one of the 32 sections/slots
– The section could be painted by an individual, or a small group of family/friends. After all sections are
painted, I will refine the design and add a graffiti-proof coating.
Timeline:
I will confer with the Arts & Culture Commission to choose a mutually agreed upon weekend for the
project. To allow for sufficient promotion of the project, and to be conducive to my schedule, I would
propose the weekend of August 3rd & 4th. Once the project is approved by the commission, I will create
promotional materials including a flyer and digital materials for sharing online. Community members
would contact me to sign up to paint a section – registration would be open until one week prior to the
painting event.
Event Logistics: Saturday | 11:00am – 7:00pm
16 timeslots | 30 minutes each
2 painters/groups per timeslot on opposite sides of the box
Signage on Hwy 55 indicating event location
Parking on 11th Street
Artist Responsibilities:
1) Design the paint by number and submit to the Commission for approval
2) Create promotional materials for the painting event
3) Manage sign-ups for the event and field questions from community members
4) Paint and number outlines of the design prior to the event (day(s) prior)
5) Facilitate painting event on the chosen Saturday
6) Provide all painting materials for the event including paint, brushes, a few tables and chairs, and
a pop-up tent to protect the box and participants from the elements
7) Provide instruction to participants who need assistance
8) Refine painting as needed and seal with graffiti-proof coating the day following the event
Formatted: Font color: Red
Commented [JE1]: Designs completed and attached to
email
Deleted: likely
Formatted: Highlight
Commented [JE2]: Event confirmed for August 3rd from
11:00am – 7:00pm
Commented [JE3]: Task complete
Commented [JE4]: AMENDMENT: Registration will
remain open until the day prior to the event or until all slots
are filled. To prioritize participation by Hastings residents,
the registration window will be open to them exclusively
from July 8th – 26th. Registration will be open to surrounding
communities
Commented [JE5]: COMPLETE
Commented [JE6]: COMPLETE – Attached to email
Commented [JE7]: COMPLETE – Created through
SignUpGenius and accessible at tinyurl.com/4k3xz87h
Commented [JE8]: To be completed on Friday, August 2nd
Commented [JE9]: Items 5-7 to be completed on August
3rd
Commented [JE10]: To be completed on Sunday, August
4th and Monday, August 5th
Arts & Culture Commission Responsibilities:
1) Communicate/partner with Chris Jenkins and the City of Hastings regarding approval of the
design and logistics of working around other activities scheduled at the pickle ball courts
2) Promote the event via community communications channels including websites of partner
organizations, social media, and posting of flyers at community arts organizations
3) Arrange partnerships with other community organizations (if desired)
4) Arrange for the presence of Commission and/or HPAC members at the event to promote other
community arts initiatives
5) Document the event using photo and video and obtain photo permissions from participants
6) Compensate artist for time and materials
Questions:
1) Would the Commission and/or HPAC be willing to provide simple refreshments for participants?
Perhaps bottled water and some sort of cold/frozen snack (ie. popsicles)?
2) Would the Commission be willing/able to provide me with a portion of the agreed upon
compensation amount PRIOR to the event for the purchase of materials?
3) Should I submit a budget and/or receipts for materials and/or my time?
4) Are there restrooms nearby for myself and participants?
5) Are there liability concerns from partner organizations, and would the Commission need a
certificate of insurance from me?
6) Does the Commission require a contract?
7) What would the Commission propose I/we do in the event of extreme weather (storms and/or
heat)?
OTHER ITEMS DISCUSSED:
1) City maintains rights to artwork
2) Warning sticker can/should be painted over, but viewing window is to remain open
Commented [JE11]: COMPLETE
Commented [JE12]: IN PROGRESS
Commented [JE13]: CONFIRMED
Commented [JE14]: CONFIRMED
Commented [JE15]: CONFIRMED – Invoice attached to
email
Commented [JE16]: DISCUSSED – Information included
with invoice
Commented [JE17]: DISCUSSED – Satellite restrooms on-
site
Commented [JE18]: DISCUSSION IN PROGRESS
Formatted: Highlight
Commented [JE19]: Artist suggests this updated
document function as a memorandum of understanding
Formatted: Highlight
Formatted: Highlight
Commented [JE20]: Rain-date set for August 10th –
Rescheduling to be determined by artist
Formatted: List Paragraph, Numbered + Level: 1 +
Numbering Style: 1, 2, 3, … + Start at: 1 + Alignment:
Left + Aligned at: 0.25" + Indent at: 0.5"7/3/24
1526 Bailey Street
Hastings, MN 55033
320-296-2588
jessie.eckroad@yahoo.com
INVOICE
DATE: 7/3/24
TO:
Hastings Parks Department
920 10th Street W
Hastings, MN 55033
(651) 480-6175
DESCRIPTION UNIT PRICE QUANTITY TOTAL
Utility Box Painting
Labor $1,000
Materials .
Primer $16 1 qt $16.00
Paint $6 25 8oz $200
Graffiti-proof sealer $50 1 gal $50
Misc. (Brushes, rags, dropcloth, etc.) NA NA $50
SUBTOTAL NA
SALES TAX NA
SHIPPING & HANDLING NA
AMOUNT DUE UPON RECEIPT (MATERIALS + 25% LABOR) $566
REMAINDER DUE UPON PROJECT COMPLETION (BY AUGUST 9) $500
TOTAL DUE $1,316
MAKE ALL CHECK PAYABLE TO BODACIOUS BADGER DESIGNS
315 East Second Street Hastings, MN 55033 Phone: 651-437-6459 Fax: 651-480-5000
TO: Retail Customer
Date:
Quotation
164607
June 25, 2024
We would like to thank you for the opportunity to submit our quotation for this work. Please feel free to call with any additional
questions or changes.
Below are your detailed production specifications for this request
Description: Steven John Reed - Cty of Hastings, Art & Culture - 2 Ver
Version
Size
Ink
Media
Packaging
Customer to Supply
Proofs
2 Versions - 1 of each version
24" x 36"
4-color process, 1-side
4 mm white corrugated plastic
bulk in cartons
Text file - GDI to format - 40 minutes included for formatting copy
PDF
Quantity 2
$124
* Due to shortages of materials, all quotes are subject to change due to availability, allocation and price prevailing at the time of order
placement. At order placement we will secure materials with a firm Purchase Order and lock in the final price.
Due to the nature of electronic publishing, we reserve the right to revise our estimate after reviewing the contents of customer supplied electronic files.
Any editing needed to process supplied files will be billed at a rate of $60 per hour.
Prices are exclusive of any sales tax or shipping charges. Per industry standards, we may bill for up to 10% over or under runs.
Sincerely,
Cindy Foss
Customer Care Representative
Phone: 651-480-5028
Fax: 651-480-5000
315 East Second Street Hastings, MN 55033 Phone: 651-437-6459 Fax: 651-480-5000
TO: Retail Customer
Date:
Quotation
164609
June 25, 2024
We would like to thank you for the opportunity to submit our quotation for this work. Please feel free to call with any additional
questions or changes.
Below are your detailed production specifications for this request
Description: Steven John Reed-Cty of Hastings, Art & Culture-Yard Signs
Version
Size
Ink
Media
Misc Materials
Packaging
Customer to Supply
Proofs
8 versions
(6 versions, 1 of each version) (1 version, 2 signs 1 of each) (1 version, 1 sign)
24" x 18", no bleeds
4-color process, 2-sides
4 mm white corrugated plastic
1 heavy duty stake per sign
bulk in cartons
Text file - GDI to format - 1 hour included for formatting copy
PDF
Quantity 9
$288
* Due to shortages of materials, all quotes are subject to change due to availability, allocation and price prevailing at the time of order
placement. At order placement we will secure materials with a firm Purchase Order and lock in the final price.
Due to the nature of electronic publishing, we reserve the right to revise our estimate after reviewing the contents of customer supplied electronic files.
Any editing needed to process supplied files will be billed at a rate of $60 per hour.
Prices are exclusive of any sales tax or shipping charges. Per industry standards, we may bill for up to 10% over or under runs.
Sincerely,
Cindy Foss
Customer Care Representative
Phone: 651-480-5028
Fax: 651-480-5000
Hello! I am Kada Goalen, founder and president of KADA CREATIVE, LTD. I specialize in creating large-
scale, site-specific murals that celebrate community, culture, and history. My work is driven by a deep
passion for transforming public spaces into vibrant and meaningful landmarks that resonate with the
local community. I am excited about the opportunity to contribute to Hastings' rich cultural tapestry by
creating a mural that celebrates its hockey history and welcomes visitors to this historic river town.
My approach to mural-making is deeply rooted in community engagement, environmental
sustainability, and the celebration of local culture and history. I believe that murals should not only
beautify a space but also tell a story that resonates with the community. This involves a collaborative
process that starts with understanding the local culture, history, and aspirations of the community.
For this opportunity, I would begin by working with key stakeholders, including the City of Hastings
staff, the Hastings Arts & Culture Commission, and community leaders. These engagements will help
gather insights and ideas that ensure the mural reflects the diverse voices of the community and
becomes a shared vision.
The design phase involves translating these inputs into a cohesive visual concept. I create preliminary
sketches and digital mock-ups, which are then presented to the community and the Hastings Arts &
Culture Commission for feedback. This iterative process ensures that the final design is both visually
appealing and meaningful.
The installation phase involves meticulous planning and execution. I use 100% low VOC acrylic paint to
ensure the mural's durability and environmental friendliness. My team and I, along with community
volunteers, will collaborate to bring the mural to life, fostering a sense of ownership and pride among
participants.
What inspires and drives me to make murals is the transformative power of public art to foster
community connection and pride. Murals are a powerful medium for storytelling, education, and social
change, and I am passionate about creating art that inspires and engages the public.
I look forward to the possibility of discussing this project further and bringing my vision to life for the
Hastings Civic Arena. Thank you for considering my application.
Kada Goalen, President
KADA CREATIVE, LTD
651.592.3816
884 Tatum Street
St. Paul, MN 55104
kada@kada-creative.com
instagram: @kada_creative
www.kada-creative.com
Kada Goalen, President KADA CREATIVE, LTDkada@kada-creative.com
REQUEST FOR QUALIFICATIONS
Mural Celebrating Hastings
Mural Celebrating Hastings, MN
Kada Goalen | KADA CREATIVE, LTD
651.592.3816
884 Tatum Street, St. Paul, MN 55104
kada@kada-creative.com
instagram: @kada_creative
Qualifications
An accomplished muralist and decorative painter for more than 20 years
Proficient in a variety of wall and ceiling surface designs and finishes
Skilled in commercial and private projects of all sizes
Experienced in working with clients to create the ideal custom outcome
Experienced in working with children, students, and community members in mural creation and
completion
Experience in the effective management of deadlines and budgets
Experience elevating projects with creative and artful solutions.
Education
Graduation 1999 Bachelor of Fine Arts- University of Massachusetts, Amherst, MA
Career Experiences
2000-present Owner and Lead Artist of KADA CREATIVE, LTD/formerly Embellish by Kada
Specialize in large commercial murals, residential murals, decorative
painting, canvas painting, ceiling design, wall finishes and more
Provide site specific artistic samples
Recommend and execute creative solutions for interior and exterior designs
Work with each client to create and implement a highly creative and high quality solution to
their project
Manage project budgets and sites with utmost respect and safety
July 2018 Lead Artist for Dale Street Community Mural
Created concept, designed and executed large mural that represented the community. Invited
neighborhood to participate in a day of painting.
August 2016 Lead Artist on Vintage on Selby Mural
Created concept, designed and executed two large scale murals in the heart of Saint Paul, MN.
Invited community to participate in a day of painting.
March 2016 Artist in Residence at JJ Hill Montessori
Mural created in collaboration with students, parents, and faculty
January 2014-2016 Blue Moon Beer Artist MN Representative
Hosted Blue Moon Beer painting events and encouraged patrons to help paint a murals
June 2014 Lead Artist at St Paul Open Streets
Created a mural and invited the local community to participate in helping paint
January 2010-2012 Artist in Residence at Sunnyside Elementary
Mural created in collaboration with students, parents, and faculty
Mural Celebrating Hastings, MN
WORK SAMPLES - IMAGE LIST
1. LAKE STREET AND 35W MURAL
Medium: Acrylic | North and South Transit Stations | Minneapolis, MN| Completed: 2023
I was commissioned by Metro Transit to enhance the 35W and Lake Street Station in Minneapolis through the creation
of two large-scale murals. These murals were strategically placed on the pillars and hide walls, utilizing the station's
unique architectural elements as a canvas. The artwork captures the energy and vibrancy of Lake Street, featuring
native bird species set against bold color palettes. The project was a collaborative effort involving a team of local
apprentices who assisted in realizing this design and artistic vision. In addition, a specialized contribution came from
Stacia Goodman Mosaics, who integrated mosaic elements into the bird wings, adding a subtle but impactful shimmer
to the overall design. The completed murals now serve as enhancements for the Metro Transit station, contributing to
a more engaging, pleasant, and welcoming environment for daily commuters and visitors alike.
2. COLISEUM MURAL
Medium: Acrylic | Dimensions: 70' x 12' x 0’ | Minneapolis, MN | Year Completed: 2023
I was commissioned by Redesign, Inc. to support art in this reimagined Coliseum building. The work included the
restoration of the historic Freeman’s as well as a wish to have a mural that imagined past and present as a beautiful
fusion. The mural was part of the restoration of the Freeman Department Store Sign. “Kada’s work is an outward
expression of what the Historic Coliseum Building means to “lift as we climb,” says Urban Design Perspectives’ Alicia
Belton, FAIA, NOMA.
3. VINTAGE MEETS MODERN - NORTH SIDE MURAL
Medium: Acrylic | Dimensions: 26’ x 30’ x 0’ | Saint Paul, MN | Completed: 2016
I was commissioned by Vintage on Selby Apartments to celebrate their local community and area. I incorporated
images that reflected the history of the area while also adding vibrant, bold colors and art to reflect the area today. To
involve the community in this mural, we incorporated a paint day during a neighborhood festival. Community
members helped us paint the first layer of this vibrant mural. We had many paintbrushes and paint on hand for
everyone. We facilitated the painting so both young and old could participate. It generated so much interest within the
community. It was a great event. As with each project I work on, for this mural, I provided a timeline of completion and
all of the necessary supplies for the work, including but not limited to scaffolding, materials for community paint days,
where occurring, and the highest quality, low VOC acrylic paint, as well as an anti-graffiti coating to provide durability
and longevity in even the harshest conditions.
4. GLACIAL VALLEY PARK
Medium: Acrylic | Dimensions: 10’ x 21’ x 0’ | Cottage Grove, MN | Completed: 2023
For the Glacial Valley Park Building Project in Cottage Grove, time layers intertwine as bold graphics recall ancient
glaciers, wildlife, and fossils whispering past tales. Vivid depictions of today's valley and fauna invite sustainability and
exploration, providing a journey through Glacial Valley's history and celebrating its enduring natural splendor. The park
building sought to honor the land's glacial history while also celebrating the vibrancy of the land today, creating a
dynamic and engaging mural that reflects the rich tapestry of the area's past and present
Kada Goalen
651.592.3816
884 Tatum Street, St. Paul, MN 55104
kada@kada-creative.com
instagram: @kada_creative
Mural Celebrating Hastings, MN
WORK SAMPLES - IMAGE LIST
5. DEL SUR EMPANADAS
MEDIUM: ACRYLIC | DIMENSIONS: 13’ X 30’ X 0’ | MINNETONKA, MN | COMPLETED: 2021
The owners of the delicious DelSur Empanadas wanted this mural to capture the elements of their Argentinian culture,
such as wine, music, dancing, food, and fútbol. I used soft yet bold colors and a graphic black outline to celebrate the
vibrancy of Argentinian culture. In addition to featuring the wine, folk music, dancing, and fútbol of their culture, the
mural wouldn’t be complete without the delicious empanadas of DelSur!
6. BURNES BUILDING INTERIOR MURAL
MEDIUM: ACRYLIC | DIMENSIONS: 9' X 40' X 0’ | HOPKINS, MN | COMPLETED: 2022
This mural for the Burnes Building in Hopkins, MN, honors Dr. Catherine Burnes, known as 'Doc Kate,' the first woman to
graduate from the University of Minnesota Medical School and the only doctor in Hopkins in the late 1800s. The clients
wanted a design celebrating Doc Kate's work and Hopkins' history. I used vivid colors, modern design, and realistic
historical references. The mural features a sunburst and contemporary shapes, with historical elements in black and gray
for accuracy. Glazing techniques bring the background to life, with details meticulously researched with help from The
Hopkins Historical Society. It was a joy to create a mural that tells a story and captivates viewers.
7. LYNLAKE STREET ART SERIES
MEDIUM: ACRYLIC | DIMENSIONS: 25’ X 12' X 0’ | MINNEAPOLIS, MN | COMPLETED: 2023
I was thrilled to be selected to add my art to this wonderful street art series on LynLake in Minneapolis. Using spray and
aura paint gave me the opportunity to play with a variety of vibrant, bold colors.
8. UMN MECHANICAL ENGINEERING
MEDIUM: ACRYLIC | DIMENSIONS: 8’ X 15' X 0’ | 8' X 10' X 0' | SAINT PAUL, MN | COMPLETED: 2022
The University of Minnesota School of Mechanical Engineering commissioned me to create a mural for its newly
renovated space, with the goal of enhancing vibrancy and engagement. The design features bold graphic elements in
the University’s maroon and gold colors, with blue accents. This mural serves as a welcoming and engaging focal point.
9. WINGSPAN
MEDIUM: ACRYLIC | DIMENSIONS: 80’ X 18’ X 0 | SAINT PAUL, MN | COMPLETED: 2022
I was commissioned by St. Anthony Park Community Council to complete this mural on two sides of the Murphy Rigging
building. SAPCC let me really delve into all of the different styles and breadth of my work. I wanted to incorporate realism,
graphic, soft and geometric styles. I love the bright colors and geometry paired with both the black and white details and
soft flowers. The balance of these contrasting elements is something I love to incorporate into my work.
10. PLACE VIA SOL
MEDIUM: ACRYLIC | DIMENSIONS: 36’ X 12' X 0’ | MINNEAPOLIS, MN | COMPLETED: 2022
PLACE VIA SOL is a mixed-income, transit-oriented development that features the arts and affordable living
opportunities. I was commissioned to create a mural that reflected the value and vision of this new location. This mural
features flora and fauna native to Minnesota with characteristics and meanings that represent the values of Place Via Sol.
This 4 story mural was such an honor to create.
Kada Goalen
651.592.3816
884 Tatum Street, St. Paul, MN 55104
kada@kada-creative.com
instagram: @kada_creative
Mural Celebrating Hastings, MN
Item 12. Hastings City Hall – Art Collection – Master List (Preview)