An innovative approach to community-driven public art is headed to Cleveland’s East Side. Under the initiative called Elevate the East, over 50 pieces of art are being scheduled to be installed in the Buckeye, Kinsman, and Woodland Hills neighborhoods over the next several years. The project, spearheaded by local leaders, community activists and organizations, isn’t just about appearances, it’s about showing respect for the heritage of these communities, involving residents in the process, and creating a more integrated, dynamic community.
A Neighborhood with Deep Roots
The Woodland Hills neighborhood, like much of greater Cleveland’s East Side, has endured centuries of redlining, economic downturn and disinvestment. Today, a block of vacant houses sit on an uneven grid, where once there were thriving Black-owned businesses, historic churches and blue-collar families in residence.
But over the past few years there were hints of revitalization. New residential home construction, city-sponsored infrastructure improvements and community development initiatives have begun to turn things around. Projects such as the Woodhill Choice Neighborhoods revitalization project and the restoration of aging parks and community centers bring the hope of renewal — and Elevate the East is now building on that with public art.
“I just remember a lot of fond memories growing up around here, playing in the neighborhood, just having fun. What brought me back was working with kids over at Harvey Rice Wraparound School and a lot of the same things I used to enjoy, like the art and African drumming at AG Bell, I now see the kids doing it too. It really brings me joy to see that still going on. It’s inspirational,” said Derrick, a neighborhood resident and youth mentor.
Art as a Catalyst for Change
Elevate the East was created from a year-long community process, where residents were invited to respond to the question of what they would like to see in their neighborhood — they responded by asking not only for art, but identity. Murals, parks and sculptures will reflect local history, culture and the residents of this section of Cleveland.
Among the most significant works to date is a giant mural along Woodhill Road that encircles the Greater Cleveland RTA’s Central Bus Maintenance Facility. At 728 feet long, it is one of Ohio’s largest murals and was produced with the guidance of residents in the neighborhood, children, and local artists.
“To me, Elevate the East means we’re coming up — we’re being recognized. It means we’re going to have some things here, like public art that shows people we exist and that we matter. When folks drive by, they’ll say, ‘That’s nice. That’s sharp.’ Just like I do when I visit other neighborhoods and think, ‘I wish we had that.’ Now we will. This project lifts us up from just being here with nothing, to having brightness, spirit, and something that makes us feel again. Public art refreshes you. It encourages you. It makes you want to go on. It really makes you feel,” said Myra Simmons, a resident of E. 93rd and Kinsman.
Elevate the East has developed an interactive map highlighting existing public art installations in Cleveland’s East Side neighborhoods, including Buckeye, Kinsman and Woodland Hills. This resource allows residents and visitors to explore the area’s cultural landmarks, featuring murals, sculptures, and other artistic works that contribute to the community’s unique identity.
The interactive map categorizes artworks into three main types:
-Murals: Large-scale paintings on buildings and walls that depict local history, culture, and community stories.
– Sculptures: Three-dimensional artworks installed in public spaces, offering aesthetic and cultural value.
– Other Art Forms: Various public art pieces that may include installations, mosaics, or functional art integrated into the environment.
Who’s Behind It
The Elevate the East project is funded by a partnership of public agencies and community organizations, such as Burten, Bell, Carr Development, Inc. (BBC), LAND Studio, and Councilperson Blaine Griffin. The project is also funded by a combination of federal funding, such as a major grant from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD), and local foundations and civic donations.
Elevate the East is part of a string of collaborative ventures, such as projects like the CMHA Woodhill Homes redevelopment and other ongoing public works, aimed at building sustainable change in long-neglected neighborhoods.
How You Can Get Involved
Residents are invited to participate in the creation of their neighborhoods’ future. Local artists may submit ideas for upcoming projects, and residents can volunteer on advisory committees, attend events, or provide stories and ideas that inform future installations.
To access the interactive map and learn more about the existing public art locations in Cleveland’s East Side neighborhoods, visit the Elevate the East website’s resources section. To find out more, get involved, or remain informed about new projects as they’re released, go to its website.
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