Murals foster a vibrant, safe environment for students

The City of Minneapolis Department of Arts & Cultural Affairs has unveiled two new artist-designed asphalt murals on 21st Avenue in south Minneapolis. The murals are located near Folwell Community School and South High and are part of Public Works’ Safe Routes to School program.

The goal of Safe Routes to School is to make travel safer for kids throughout the city as they go to and from school and around their neighborhoods. The City continues to prioritize the well-being of its youngest community members in its commitment to improving infrastructure through innovative, community-driven projects such as this.

“Research suggests that asphalt art can work in combination with other safety countermeasures to help lower vehicle speeds, reduce crashes, and improve traffic safety on our streets,“ said Director Tim Sexton, Minneapolis Public Works. “Over the next two years, we’ll evaluate safety outcomes at these two intersections with the goal to provide students with a safer route to school.”

Partnering with students

Artists Constanza Caraballo and Marco Aguero worked with students from Folwell Community School and South High to design and paint the murals. 

“We have had an incredible experience working with the students, and their enthusiasm, creativity, and dedication have been truly inspiring” said Carballo and Aguero. “Watching them come together to bring this project to life has been a rewarding journey, showcasing the power of community and collaboration. We are proud to see their artistic talents shine and grateful for the opportunity to guide and support them in this endeavor.”

Mural locations

Folwell Community School: intersection of 21st Avenue South and 35th Street.

South High Mural: intersection of 21st Avenue South and 31st Street.

About asphalt murals

Asphalt murals are funded in part by Bloomberg Philanthropies' Asphalt Art Initiative grant program. The program funds visual art interventions on roadways, pedestrian spaces, and public infrastructure in cities in North America and Europe.