Paul LaJeunesse’s mural Craft District, located at 1902 W. Superior St. in Duluth’s Lincoln Park neighborhood, stands as a vibrant tribute to the area’s rich history and evolving identity. Completed in 2017 during his tenure as the Duluth Art Institute’s inaugural Lincoln Park Craft District Artist-in-Residence, LaJeunesse’s work captures the essence of a community rooted in craftsmanship and resilience.Perfect Duluth
The mural, measuring 10 feet by 40 feet, employs the Polytab method—a technique involving painting on nonwoven fabric in a studio setting before adhering it to the wall. This approach allowed LaJeunesse to intricately depict scenes that intertwine the neighborhood’s past and present. The lower portion of the mural showcases historical elements such as a stand of manoomin (wild rice), a metalworker, and a lumber saw, symbolizing the area’s foundational industries. Ascending the mural, contemporary artisans are portrayed utilizing traditional techniques in modern contexts, illustrating the continuity of craftsmanship in Lincoln Park. A depiction of the St. Louis River weaves through the composition, symbolizing the thread connecting generations of makers in the community.
Craft District has since become a cornerstone of the Lincoln Park Art Walk, a collection of murals that celebrate the neighborhood’s artistic spirit and cultural heritage.— Duluth News Tribune
LaJeunesse’s commitment to community engagement is evident not only in the mural’s content but also in its creation. He donated approximately $15,000 in time and materials to the project. The College of St. Scholastica supported the endeavor by funding assistant Erin Diver, while local business Frost River provided logistical support, including wall preparation, scaffolding, and ongoing maintenance.