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Volunteers needed to paint community mural at Niagara Frontier Food Terminal

Community members are invited to participate in the giant “Paint by Numbers” gathering on June 15

For anyone who has ever wanted to get involved in a community mural project, the Niagara Frontier Food Terminal (NFFT) and SAIRA Creative are looking for 25 volunteers to participate in a “paint by numbers” public art project on Saturday, June 15 from 12 p.m. at 16. The location for the art project is at the Niagara Frontier Food Terminal, 1500 Clinton Street, corner of Clinton and Bailey on Buffalo’s East Side. The mural will be placed on the restored dock of Building No. 177, directly across from the Clinton Bailey Farmers Market.

The idea for the community mural was that of NFFT tenant Saira Siddiqui, who has been a strong advocate for the historic and architecturally significant food market, opened in 1931. Today, the NFFT is home to small, local food startups and drinks. , specialty food purveyors, ethnic food retailers and over 25 artists.

Volunteers will be assigned a section of the 90-foot ground mural and paint designated colors for designated numbers to complete a sunburst design.

“This mural will help us recreate the vibrancy of the NFFT in the past,” said Matthew Wattles, director of development for the Niagara Frontier Food Terminal. “Artists and creatives play a key role in our redevelopment, and this mural will only add to that momentum.” »

“We held community workshops with NFFT tenants, local organizations and residents to determine the final design,” said Saira Siddiqui, who developed the community mural project to further beautify the historic terminal, in addition to building improvement funds she obtained through the Erie County Building Improvement Program. Subsidy for window improvement. “The sunburst theme nods to this central area of ​​the city where people gather around food markets and now creative businesses. It also references the iconic skylight of Buffalo City Hall, while also resembling the train tracks that would have been used during the original iteration of NFFT.

“Painting this mural is a unique opportunity for our community to come together and celebrate the rich history and vibrant future of the Niagara Frontier Food Terminal,” said Fillmore District Council Member Mitch Nowakowski. “By participating in this mural, residents will not only help beautify our city, but will also strengthen our community ties and support the development of local artists. I encourage everyone who can join us in this meaningful effort.

“This project exemplifies the spirit of collaboration and community pride that defines Buffalo,” said Council Member Bryan J. Bollman. “By bringing together local artists and residents, we not only enhance the beauty of the NFFT, but also celebrate our rich cultural heritage and our shared future.

*Volunteers will receive all necessary supplies as well as snacks and drinks. Once the mural is completed, pedestrian amenities will be added, including bike racks and benches, to create a space for people to gather on site.

To register as a volunteer, please email: [email protected].

The rain date will be Saturday July 27.

Support for this project is provided by:

  • Erie County Storefront Improvement Grant
  • Superb Buffalo Foundation
  • Mitch Nowakowski, board member
  • Bryan Bollman, Board Member

Main image: A public art project located at the Niagara Frontier Food Terminal