Massive public art project by Saype debuts at Boom Island Park in Minneapolis
Go Deeper.
Create an account or log in to save stories.
Like this?
Thanks for liking this story! We have added it to a list of your favorite stories.
Boom Island Park is now the home of a new temporary art exhibit by Franco-Swiss artist Saype called “Beyond Walls.” Saype has painted the massive mural of linked hands in 22 countries, but this is the first time his work is in the U.S. The project debuted Friday afternoon.
The artist said he decided to pick Minneapolis for the project during the federal immigration enforcement surge after seeing neighbors helping each other.
“In the recent events in Minneapolis, even in Europe, we spoke a lot of the recent events this winter and before. I think it’s really revealing of the fracture of the society still going on in the U.S.,” he said. “My project is to connect people more than to divide. So, I thought maybe it’s a great place to start this project for this reason.”
Saype started the mural on Monday. Since beginning, he said he’s felt very welcomed by the people of Minneapolis, with some even bringing him lunch or coffee to express their gratitude.
“I got chills when I speak with the people, some people cry, so it’s very moving and honestly I’m so happy, grateful that people welcome me like that,” he said. “I feel at my right place on Earth today.”
There are celebrations 3 to 5 p.m. Friday and Saturday for the opening of the mural with a speech by Saype, a food truck, music and drone photography capturing the art. Guests will also be invited to link arms around the mural at 4 p.m. both days.
Turn Up Your Support
MPR News helps you turn down the noise and build shared understanding. Turn up your support for this public resource and keep trusted journalism accessible to all.
