This 60ft mural is both the center walkway and facade to the North Portland Medial Clinic, operated by Providence Medical. Mahlum Architects wanted to design a clinic that immediately felt part of the existing community and represent community, Portland and wellness. The mural can also be viewed as a narrative by the passing above ground light-rail, which gives it passing by narrative.
To create this piece I took photos of people from the community, buildings and landmarks. The final piece and building received an American Institute of Architecture Built Merit Award, 2008 and Healthcare Design Award, 2009.
“The North Portland Clinic embraces its urban context, reaching out to underserved populations within this diverse neighborhood. A butterfly roof creates the frame for an expansive wall of windows. Located on the mass-transit MAX line in Portland’s urban core, the building opens onto the busy streetscape to reinforce visual connection and invite the community inside. The interior is divided into three daylit clinical pods with integrated murals by local artist Caleb Freese that express themes of compassion, community and wellness. By reinforcing connections with the neighborhood, the clinic supports revitalization efforts in the area while making Providence community services more transparent and accessible.”
