THE BIG PICTURE VOICES: A MAVERICK INCLUSION PAINTING It’s hard to miss the bright tapestry hanging in the atrium of the Centennial Student Union. The work, titled Voices, aims to encompass, celebrate and lift the voices of the many different communities that make up Minnesota State Mankato. “The goal of this piece is to visually engage the audience as well as inspire real advances in inclusivity at Minnesota State Mankato,” reads the description. From the Creators: “I sought to develop an art piece that gave a voice to our many underrepresented communities at Minnesota State Mankato. Commissioning an artist from a diverse and underrepresented background was of utmost priority which is why Justin Ek, a local American Indian artist took the lead on this project. A piece for the people by the people” —Maria Rios, Student Events Team—Educational Entertainment. “For this piece, I will be including symbols and colors that act as the bridge between the individuals of our vastly diverse communities. The inspiration for those symbols and colors speak closely to my diverse roots as an indigenous person with a history of Hispanic heritage.” —Justin Ek, Bellissimo Painting
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