The Diatribe is hosting a mural activation party for one of its 49507 mural series.
Artist Mila Lynn of Mind of Mila will unveil her newest artwork, entitled “Uncaged,” during an event from noon-2 p.m., Saturday, Aug. 27, at the mural’s location, 1956 Eastern Ave. SE. Food from Burton Village BBQ and music by DJ Head Debaise will be featured.
“The piece is meant to reflect the diversity of (southeast) Grand Rapids and remind us all where unity exists, so does love and healing,” Lynn said.
The mural covers 1,050 square feet and was finished in late July after taking 30 days of work. The mural is a vibrant representation of four young girls with hummingbirds, painted on a building owned by Mary Malone.
“The idea is that the little girls are freeing these hummingbirds that bring back degrees, medals, etc. to the community,” Lynn said. “Hummingbirds are used because they are a sign of joy, healing and positivity. Children are the ones releasing the birds because it’s innocent and playful, something that I feel like, as minorities, we experience for a far shorter period than our white counterparts. The little girls are meant to show diversity and unity. Cuban, Mexican, African American and biracial backgrounds influenced their illustration. It was important to me that everyone feel like they could connect to this piece.”
“Uncaged” is one of eight murals being activated in the coming weeks on the south side of Grand Rapids as part of “The 49507 Project.” Each contains imagery that was inspired by community listening sessions held to ensure the art added to the area is representative of what people who live in the area want to see.
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