Dawning of a New Day, Downtown Kansas City, Kansas Avenue of Murals

Dawning of a New Day

• Artists: Joe Faus and Alisha Gambino, 1,500 sq. ft. Sponsors: Kansas Arts Commission, Bank Midwest Honoring the importance of generations, family and culture in the African American community, the left side of the mural emphasizes the cultural legacy of African art, dress, architecture and textile patterns. The right side of the mural mirrors the African skyline with an urban American skyline, and features portraits of people who have left a significant legacy in American society, many with connections to Kansas City. The middle section features the seven principles of Kwanzaa and shows the hope of children and the future.
• “The Avenue of Murals Project was initiated in 2004 with the goal of adding quality public art to downtown Kansas City, Kansas, to bring people together, to educate ourselves about one another, and to involve local high school youth in arts programming. Under the guidance of professional artists-in-residence, eight outstanding murals were completed and installed in a four-block long corridor along Minnesota Avenue. Each mural celebrates the history and culture of Kansas City, Kansas and the unique groups within the community. Over 30 creative and energetic high school students were involved in the four-year project. A mural tour map is provided to encourage residents and visitors to walk or drive the tour and enjoy these tremendous examples of mural art and learn something new of the history and culture of our community.”