Mural to Mark 75 Years

When the Community Foundation began looking for ways to celebrate its 75^th anniversary in 2024, one of the biggest ideas was a mural. Besides adding some vibrancy to the building, a mural could also pay homage to those who make our community thrive.

The idea seemed almost too big—until the Community Foundation teamed up with Murals & More.

A volunteer-run nonprofit, Murals & More has cultivated public art in Cedar Rapids since 2011. The organization has led the development of 15 projects in the downtown area and provided support for many more.

“Public art is one of the many cultural identity markers of a community,” said Nick Ludwig, Co-Chair of Murals & More. “For visitors and residents alike, art that is accessible to all can lead to a sense of belonging and build upon social cohesion, as everyone has the opportunity to experience it.”

Murals & More connected the Community Foundation to Downtown Cedar Rapids, which provides funding for such projects. Downtown Cedar Rapids—an organization that aims to foster economic development in the area—has supported at least six large murals in recent years as recommended by the Downtown SSMID Commission.

“Murals and public art contribute to the success of a community by enhancing the aesthetic appeal of public spaces, making them more inviting,” said Jennifar Bassett, Downtown Cedar Rapids Program Manager. “Being a part of and supporting a milestone like this is exciting. This mural project not only marks a significant milestone but also serves as a symbol of unity, resilience, and shared history within Cedar Rapids.”

With funding from Downtown Cedar Rapids and support from Community Foundation board, past board and staff members, the big idea started to seem possible. After a highly competitive process guided by Murals & More, the group selected Scott Takes of Underground Art Studios.

For more than 20 years, Scott has worked as a Cedar Rapids-based artist, airbrushing anything and everything for clients around the country. Besides his obvious talent, part of Scott’s appeal to customers is his ability to work in a variety of styles. His studio is full of motorcycle parts bearing everything from a Janis Joplin portrait to art deco designs. Scott has also already painted two murals in Cedar Rapids—a drag-racing cow in Oakhill Jackson and a pensive, cosmic Lucille Ball in Kingston Village.

“I could have my studio anywhere, but I love being downtown, having people all around me,” Scott said. “It’s great to work with people from all over, but I love getting to create things that people around here will see and ask questions about.”

Scott worked with Murals & More and the Community Foundation to develop ideas that represent local nonprofits and the community they serve. The mural is currently being installed and will be officially unveiled at the Community Foundation’s 75^th anniversary celebration on August 7.

“After a lot of coordination and planning, we’re very excited to be able to present this mural to the community,” said Community Foundation Vice President of Marketing and Communications Corinne Rahe. “Scott is so talented, and we’re grateful he has helped us bring some vibrancy to our little corner of Linn County.”

Help us celebrate our 75^th Anniversary by joining us at our Block Party, Free Admission Day to local arts and culture organizations, or by ordering a RAYGUN t-shirt. Learn more here!