KBOO Community Radio Landmark Mural

• Client: KBOO Community Radio / Regional Arts & Culture Council (RACC)

• Roles: Creative Lead, Grant Recipient, Project Director, Installation

• Scope: 700 sq. ft. Exterior Mural / Public Art Grant Project

• Location: Portland, Oregon

 

Creative Lead

I was awarded a grant by the Regional Arts & Culture Council to design and direct a massive visual overhaul of the KBOO Community Radio station. This project was a study in large-scale logistics and community mobilization. Key responsibilities included:

Grant Management & Compliance: Coordinating with RACC to ensure the project met all municipal public art requirements and budget milestones.

Public Paint-In Coordination: Developing a "Paint-by-Number" system that allowed dozens of community volunteers to execute a professional-grade mural over a 48-hour period.

Site Direction: Managing the preparation, safety, and technical execution of a 50-foot wide street-level installation in a high-traffic urban environment.

 

KBOO Mural Documentary (Produced by MJ Woodis)

 

Vision

KBOO is a pillar of Portland’s independent voice. The goal was to translate that eclectic, community-driven energy into a vibrant visual landmark. The design used bold, graphic lines to tell the story of radio as a connective tissue for the city, turning a drab facade into a destination.

 

 

Leadership & Mobilization

The "Lead" role here was as much about people as it was about paint. To manage a 50-foot wall with dozens of volunteers, I developed a color-coded prep system. By mapping out the "black line" framework beforehand, I empowered community members to become stakeholders in the project’s success, ensuring the final output remained cohesive and striking despite the many hands involved.

 

 

Human Element

This mural became a community celebration. Seeing volunteers—from radio DJs to neighborhood residents—come together to leave their mark on the station was a testament to the power of public art. The project was captured in a documentary by MJ Woodis, highlighting the mural as a catalyst for local pride and connection.

 

Process & Volunteers

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

First pencil sketches before painting