This summer, we've had the delightful opportunity to partner with Public Arts St. Paul and local photographer Wing Young Huie through the University Avenue Project.
The relationship began when they chose to include Welcome to the Masquerade in the soundtrack that accompanies the photo projection show of Wing's collection of images portraying people from neighborhoods connected by University Avenue - six miles of it that runs through Minneapolis and Saint Paul
We were part of their first monthly cabaret and we participated again this past weekend. This month, between my two sets of songs; Jason, my mom (who was visiting from out of town) and I enjoyed the music of a couple of other local performers and even a group dance lesson.
This project is amazing in so many ways. Voices that are often ignored are being amplified. Stories from undervalued cultures and classes are being told in a fresh and meaningful way.
I've said before that my favorite moments are when I get to see someone be their true selves, allowing their unique light to shine and freely sharing their gifts and skills on behalf of others to enrich and build community. This project -- with Wing's photography, the partnerships created and the community involvement -- is an incredible example of this.
If you live near the Twin Cities or are visiting before the project ends in October, be sure to visit University Avenue. Even simply driving it, you'll see painted murals of Wing's photos on the sides of buildings and large prints hung in storefront windows. More ways to connect at their website above.
May we all be conduits of peace and hope, equality to mutuality, respect and collaboration. May our eyes be opened to the beauty in the various cultures right next store.
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