Portland State University (PSU) added a splash of local pride and diversity with the permanent installation of the "Celebrate Oregon!" mural within its Viking Pavilion, a choice location that highlights the school's dedication to a rich medley of cultural expression. The artwork was originally created for the new Cultural Trust license plate, but quickly rose to prominence, demanding larger exhibition spaces, resulting in its full-scale rendition for public enjoyment. As reported on March 12th by Portland State University's news site, the mural was unveiled after a ceremony featuring performances by local talents such as Jimmie Herrod and Friends of Noise, alongside a Tribal Welcome by Turquoise Pride.
Every corner of the state had a hand in crafting this vibrant panorama—Liza Mana Burns, a Eugene artist, spearheaded the creation with over 100 Oregonians contributing through nominations and designs, the various perspectives aligning into an intricate tapestry of over 127 symbols representative of Oregon's arts, heritage and humanities. KOIN, in an article published on the same day as the unveiling, highlighted the significant participation by individuals, including those from the Governor’s Advocacy Commissions, attesting to the artwork's inclusive vision. The mural, in its new home, is much more than a backdrop; according to KOIN, it's poised to be a landmark celebrating PSU's commitment to diversity and inclusion, initially available to an invite-only crowd, it will soon be accessible to the public eye.
The "Celebrate Oregon!" mural has not only adorned PSU but has been on a statewide tour of sorts, mesmerizing viewers at the Portland International Airport, on public transportation and even making a splash on a Rose Festival parade float. Brian Rogers, Executive Director of the Cultural Trust, emphasized the artwork's power to forge a connection with its audience, creating a deep sense of belonging, as he shared with the Portland Tribune. This sentiment is echoed by PSU's Dean of the College of the Arts, Leroy E. Bynum, Jr., who in the same interview expressed the university's pride in housing a piece that so vividly reflects the diverse and dynamic creative culture ingrained in the institution's identity.
With its richly colored landscape and symbols ranging from the Camas flower to the iconic covered bridges of Oregon, the mural stands as an inviting and affirming statement, telling every viewer,“It says, plainly and simply, ‘You are welcome here. You matter here.”’ a point driven home by Bynum's reflection, obtained by the PSU news site and reflective of the states multifaceted narratives that continue to shape its present and future. The Portland Tribune further elaborated on the mural's journey, noting that after its stint at PDX and other high-visibility platforms like Oregon's largest airports and an Oregon Coast Art Bus, the mural's rooted permanence at PSU marks a significant milestone in its celebrated journey.
