our story.
our mural.
our third ward.
The Grand Rapids, MI Third Ward has always been built by its people,
and this mural should be, too.
What is the third Ward mural project?
The Third Ward Mural Project is a community-led effort to create a public mural that celebrates the history, culture, and legacy of Grand Rapids' Third Ward.
This isn't just about painting a wall; it's about honoring the people who came before us, celebrating the stories that define our neighborhood, and creating something future generations will be proud to call their own.
Every step of this project is guided by community. From choosing the historical figure and selecting the artist to shaping the mural's design, Third Ward residents and community partners are helping bring this vision to life.
Whether you've lived in the Third Ward your whole life, recently moved here, work in the neighborhood, or simply care about its future, there's a place for you in this story.
Creating a community mural takes time, collaboration, and lots of community voices. Here's what you can expect over the coming months.
Learn Our History
Working with GRAAMA, we'll research and share the stories of historical figures connected to the Third Ward. A Community Selection Committee will review this research before recommending the individuals who will move forward for public voting.
Vote
Third Ward residents will shape the project by voting for:
The historical figure to be honored
The location of the mural
The final mural concept created by the artist finalists
Every vote helps tell our community's story.
Every voice adds a brushstroke.
Select the Artist
Artists from across the region will submit qualifications to paint the mural. The Community Selection Committee will review submissions, select the top three finalists, and invite them to create original mural concepts inspired by the selected historical figure and mural site.
Create the Mural
Once the final design is selected, the artist will begin transforming the wall into a vibrant public artwork that celebrates the Third Ward's history and legacy.
Celebrate Together
When the mural is complete, we'll gather as a community for a public unveiling to celebrate the artist, honor the historical figure, and recognize everyone who helped make this project possible.
Whats happening, & When
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Website launches
Community Selection Committee formed
Artist RFQ opens
Community pop-up events begin
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GRAAMA shares historical research
Community Selection Committee meets
Public voting for the historical figure
Community listening session
Artist finalists selected
Finalists develop mural concepts
Community activation and public voting on the final mural concept
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Wall preparation and mural installation
Community mural unveiling and celebration
Help Shape the Mural!
📍Know a Great Mural Location?
Do you know a building or wall in the Third Ward that could be a great home for the mural?
🏆 Who Should We Honor?
Know a historical figure whose story, impact, or legacy deserves to be recognized through public art?
Where to
find us
There are plenty of ways to be part of the mural project! Stop by a community pop-up, join us for Community Night, or check back for new ways to get involved.
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Come learn about the people who helped shape the Third Ward, and help decide who we honor on the mural!
Hear their stories, connect with neighbors, and cast your vote for the historical figure you want to see celebrated.
Location: LINC Up Gallery
Date: 9/17/2026
Time: 6:30 PM
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Location: MLK Community Center
Date: 9/3/2026
Time: 5:30 PM
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Location: Garfield Park
Date: 9/12/2026
Time: 12 PM
Call for artist!
We’re looking for a Grand Rapids-based artist to help bring Third Ward history to life! The selected artist will design and install a large-scale mural honoring a historically significant person connected to the Third Ward.
Three finalists will be selected to develop mural concepts and share their vision with the community before the final artist is chosen.
RFQ Deadline: August 28, 2026
The Third Ward Mural Project is a collaborative effort made possible through the partnership of the Third Ward community, the City of Grand Rapids, MI, GRAAMA, & Khamai Strategies.
Meet the Team
The Community
Most importantly, this project belongs to the community. Third Ward residents, neighborhood organizations, local leaders, businesses, and community partners are helping select the historical figure, choose the artist, and shape the mural's final design. Every voice helps tell the story.
The City of Grand Rapids is proud to support this community-driven public art initiative, investing in projects that celebrate local history, strengthen neighborhoods, and create welcoming public spaces for everyone.
The Grand Rapids African American Museum & Archives (GRAAMA) is providing historical expertise, cultural insight, and guidance throughout the project. They help ensure the stories, people, and legacy of the Third Ward are honored with authenticity and care.
Khamai Strategies is leading project management and community engagement for the Third Ward Mural Project. From coordinating community conversations and managing the artist selection process to keeping residents informed every step of the way, Khamai is helping ensure this project reflects the voices and values of the Third Ward.
Community Selection Committee
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Brandi Allaway
11 Year Resident
Fun Fact: Runs a nonprofit that provides personalized birthday cakes to children and young adults in foster care. -
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Ellen Atkins
King Park Neighbors President
Fun Fact: Loves to travel -
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Gregory Foster III
9 Year Resident
Fun Fact: At one time was considered one of Grand Rapids’ most eligible bachelors. -
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LeMarr Jackson
34 Year Resident
Fun Fact: The closest thing to a movie critic you'll meet without the credentials. Averages watching more than 200 movies a year. -
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Shayna Haynes Heard
Third Generation Resident
Fun Fact: Is a writer
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Stephanie Suero
16 Year Resident
Fun Fact: Bronx-born, Dominican-raised community girl who loves roosters
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Regenail Thomas
4 Year Resident
Fun Fact: Is a skater
Follow the Journey
Follow the Journey
Have a question, idea, or story to share? We'd love to hear from you! Whether you're interested in the project, want to get involved, or have a memory about the Third Ward, send us a message.