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   A beautiful new mural in downtown Remer, MN was recently completed by mural artist Cheyenne Renee Marcus as part of her 50in50 Project. Her goal is to paint a mural in 50 small towns across all 50 states, which she hopes to complete by the end of 2025. The idea was inspired by her desire to combine her interest in Tourism and Economic Development, together with her love of art and traveling. Cheyenne started her mission in her hometown of Covington, Virginia in April of 2022 and has been traveling from coast to coast painting and creating a documentary that highlights each of the communities she represents in her public art.  

   It was by splendid chance that Remer was chosen for her Minnesota stop. A newly formed Community Strategic Action Group, sponsored by the U of M Extension and Blandin Foundation, began brainstorming strategies to revitalize the downtown area, with a mural proposed as one potential initiative. In mid June they came across Cheyenne’s 50in50 Project during a simple Google search and nominated Remer as a possible candidate. To their surprise and delight, Cheyenne responded in early July choosing Remer for her project, working perfectly with her summer schedule doing murals in Wisconsin and the Dakotas in August.

   Although fundraising had not begun, the committee moved ahead with plans to find a suitable site for the mural, determined not to let Remer miss this opportunity. The East side of town was preferred, as the Bigfoot statue will be installed on the West end when it arrives. The Rusty Bucket owners Scott Kesti and Kaara Nilsson graciously offered their business location. A flat, billboard type structure was constructed for the painting rather than directly onto the corrugated metal Quonset building. The finished piece is stunning and truly captures the beauty and resources we all love about the Northland.

   During Cheyenne’s short 3-day visit in Remer, she completed mural  #30/50 (roughly 22 hrs of painting), was interviewed by KAXE radio, and filmed and interviewed some community members as part of her documentary. Special acknowledgement goes to Patty Engen, Nancy Stefan, and (local artist) Peter Gordinko for taking time with her. Cheyenne was thrilled to view Peter’s mural inside the Caboose at the Remer Depot. The Strategic Action Group wishes Cheyenne the best as she continues her noble quest, and wants to recognize those who donated money to help defray the costs of this project: First National Bank North, Scott Kesti & Kaara Nilsson, Bob & Su Ugstad, Remer Area Chamber of Commerce, City of Remer, Hoker’s Do It Best Lumber, Jackie Nawalany, and Mark Gravelle.  Several people donated directly to Cheyenne @ www.cheyennerenee.com. Click ‘Shop’.

To further support this project and other Action Group initiatives for downtown Remer,  donations are accepted at First National Bank in Remer under ‘mural’.

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