Artist selected for Arvonne Fraser Library’s public art commission

As part of Hennepin County’s One Percent for Art Commissioned Public Art program, mural artist Kada Goalen has been selected to create installations for the two public stairwells at Arvonne Fraser Library. These unique commissioned works of art will celebrate, explore, and include the diverse histories and cultures of the community and highlight the library as a shared space for enrichment and connection.

The public art process for Arvonne Fraser Library began in 2024 following the 2018-2019 Arvonne Fraser Library renovation project. Hennepin County Library contracted with Forecast Public Art to facilitate community engagement activities and a call for an artist/artist team to design and create artwork that represents the community. After several meetings that concluded with presentations by three final artists/artist teams in January 2025, the Art Selection Committee selected Kada Goalen as the recipient of the Arvonne Fraser Library public artwork commission.

About the artist

With 20 years of experience, Goalen has built a reputation for creating impactful artworks that enhance neighborhoods and environments. Passionate about community engagement, Goalen specializes in transforming spaces into vibrant expressions of collective values. She excels at merging her artistic vision with the insights and aspirations of her collaborators, creating pieces that not only beautify spaces but also inspire a sense of pride and belonging.

About the design

Inspired by the architecture and ceilings at Arvonne Fraser, Goalen will create a series of boxes stacked to create one unique art piece on each stairwell wall. The inside of each box will tell its own story based on historical and ecological aspects of the neighborhood, as well as imagery created through narratives shared by community members like you.

We want to hear from you!

Help us with our public art design at Arvonne Fraser Library. Stop by the library to share your thoughts and help shape the artwork:

• May – June: On your own engagement in the library
• Saturday, June 21: Join artist Kada Goalen in art making at the library’s Art on the Lawn event from noon to 4 p.m.