In the heart of Saginaw, a tapestry of history, courage, and community unfurls across buildings and walls, reminding us that each stroke of a brush can immortalize a journey of purpose. The Great Mural Project, an artistic endeavor that took root in 2017, has woven 25 stunning murals into the fabric of Saginaw. Together, they capture the essence of remarkable individuals who have shaped the city’s narrative.
Founded on a vision to ignite the soul of Saginaw with color and stories, The Great Mural Project came to life. A simple idea grew into a vibrant kaleidoscope of expression, welcoming artists and visionaries to breathe life into the city’s streets.
“Public art is a gift to everyone,” says Jamie Forbes, committee member of The Great Mural Project. Forbes emphasizes the project’s commitment to inclusivity and access. “We believe that public art is special because it has a low barrier of entry; it’s about making sure all of our neighbors have access to it.”
Among these vivid creations, one mural stands tall. It depicts Jim Letherer, a soon-to-be local icon who marched with unyielding spirit alongside Martin Luther King Jr. and etched his name into the chronicles of history. Letherer is not a name many Saginaw residents recognize, but thanks to The Great Mural Project and artist Kevin Burdick he will be remembered.
Born in 1933, Letherer shines as a symbol of hope within the civil rights movement. A Saginaw native, Letherer was one of only 50 out-of-state marchers to walk from Selma, Alabama, to Montgomery. His stride resonated as he marched alongside Dr. King during the historic 1966 Freedom March. Overcoming the physical challenges of being born with only one leg, Letherer’s spirit blazed brightly, each step a testament to unwavering dedication. The mural portrays his triumphant journey, marching an awe-inspiring 54 miles, echoing through time as a powerful symbol of strength and courage.
Burdick, hailing from Flint, is the artistic maestro who gave life to Letherer’s spirit on the towering brick and mortar canvas. Burdick masterfully captured the essence of Saginaw’s past when painting Letherer’s historic march, infusing each brushstroke with passion and reverence. Chosen for his ability to transform stories into visual splendor with his photorealism technique, Burdick’s rendition is a testament to the power of art transcending time.
As the Letherer mural graces one corner of Saginaw, plans are underway for a companion piece. This mural — Saginaw Present — is set to adorn the Bearinger Building. The new mural will capture the pulse of Saginaw’s present, creating a symphony of stories that resonate across generations. John Vasquez, the lead artist behind the upcoming mural, notes, “The past and present intertwine, uniting the soul of Saginaw through art.”
Saginaw’s artistic renaissance extends beyond murals; it permeates the very character of the city. Vasquez’s passion for public art catalyzed a transformation, challenging norms and carving spaces for artistic expression. His dedication gave birth to The Showdown, a vibrant art festival that unites local talents and showcases their creations.
“The fruition came because I was painting one day and the cops showed up; they had a gun drawn on me, so that’s where the conversation started,” remembers Vasquez. After meetings with city officials, Vasquez was able to create a designated area where artists can paint and show off their skills.
“We don’t have fancy art galleries here,” says Vasquez. “Street art is our gallery.”
Anticipation builds for the second mural’s grand reveal on the Bearinger Building, across the parking lot from the Saginaw Past mural of Jim Letherer. Pit & Balcony Community Theater, The Showdown, and The Great Mural Project collaborated to merge Saginaw’s past and present into a colorful vision for all of Saginaw to see. The murals, side by side, stand as a testament to a city’s journey — one of courage, unity, and steadfast hope.
The Great Mural Project has not only adorned Saginaw’s streets with vibrant visages, but also kindled a newfound sense of community and dialogue.
“All the conversations that happen in front of these murals that were never present before; it’s inspiring the next generation,” says Vasquez. Burdick echoes this sentiment, sharing, “It makes the younger generations proud of their city.”
In every brushstroke, a story unfolds — a story that resonates with the hearts of the youth, stoking the flames of pride and connection to the place they call home. This endeavor is far more than just color on canvas. It’s about fostering a network of artists, as Forbes expresses, “I hope it’s creating a network of artists either at the beginning of their experience or very highly experienced artists that are able to support each other and work on things together and make space for all of our neighbors to do art.” This network of creativity and shared passion, bridges experience and aspiration, creating a tapestry where every voice finds its place.
These murals are more than static images; they are catalysts for conversations, inspiration, and collaboration. As the colors dance in the sunlight, they spark discussions that bring a community together, weaving new narratives, and inspiring generations to stand tall and proud.
Saginaw’s walls, buildings, and streets have become the canvas of its soul, where stories of courage, resilience, and progress are painted in vibrant hues. The mural of Jim Letherer and its impending companion piece are more than art; they are legacies etched into the fabric of the city, urging us to march forward, to dream, and to carve our own path. As one stands before these monumental masterpieces, one is reminded that in every stroke, in every shade, lives the essence of Saginaw — a city propelled by art, united by history, and bound by a shared vision of a brighter tomorrow.
Janus Bard 