Tenney Lapham Mural Design

This is a design concept for the Tenney Lapham neighborhood mural at the Water Utility Department in Reynolds Park.
It holds a meaning unique to our community (yes “OUR” - I’ve lived here 4 years!).

Diversity - Vibrant colors are used a representation of our diverse cultures and the beauty of our differences coming together.

Native American Culture - The Native American history here is incredible. With the help of Senior Research Archaeologist, Constance Arzygian, I developed an understanding of their timeline. The knowledge I obtained is extensive, so I’ll highlight my favorite period, which is the Late Woodland tradition. In this era they began making pottery, domesticated plants and created effigy mounds. We are blessed in Wisconsin to be the grounds of originally 15,000 and presently 4,000 of these unique land formations that included honoring the earth and sky.

Native Landscape - The respect of the native landscape is what I love most about this culture. I worked with State Archaeologist Amy Rosebrough to understand what the exact site of our neighborhood looked like before being settled. The scene was one of wetlands with patches of forest. The design highlights this with the burr oak tree to the left, and leaves winding from the figure’s (I feel she is a nature spirit, representative of the Native American culture) head dress. In the back we see a wetland, set against native woodland sunflowers and blue flag irises. The wave of lake Mendota flows in the front wrapping around a heart.

African American History - This was the first African American neighborhood in Madison. John Hill visited from Atlanta, and falling in love with the area, decided to move here with his wife, Amanda. They opened a grocery store in 1917 and it stayed in business 70 years! The hands to the right are holding a group of fruit, showing the offerings of this historical landmark and the bounty they provided to the community.

Architecture - The small house to the left is a placeholder for a home from our neighborhood that has historical significance. There are many beautiful places here that have housed our history, and will for many years to come.

Heart - This is the present, what we represent today. At the base of every community is heart. You get back the love you pour out. We’re equal, standing proudly in our diversity, knowing we all have a story to tell. We honor the history of this place and we respect each other, and our life experiences. Together we make it our home. Much love to my community. - Audifax