- THE PROJECT
ABOUT THE PROJECT
& ADM BACKGROUNDADM is a Chicago-based corporation recognized as a global leader in nutrition. They are the world’s premier agricultural organization and processing company, with a focus on providing access to nutrition worldwide.
ADM operates a grain silo facility on the east bank of the Maumee River. In a very prominent location, the facility is visible from Interstate-75, the Maumee River and downtown Toledo. The silos are well preserved and regularly maintained.
We have partnered with ADM to promote cultural awareness and beautification, under the supervision and guidance of our Steering Committee.
ABOUT TOLEDO & THE SILO SITE
Toledo has a long-standing tradition of being unique and vigorous in their support of the arts. From the Toledo Museum of Art’s founder Edward Drummond Libbey’s vision to build a place that was accessible to all, to the longest standing arts commission in the state and one of the early 1% for the Arts program in the country, Toledo has been devoted in their commitment. Our goal is to continue that tradition.
For thousands of years, various cultures of indigenous peoples lived along the rivers of what is now northwestern Ohio and were the first farmers in the region. The site is recognized for its historic value and is designated with a plaque describing the fortification and its significance. It is a story that is seldom told, but steeped in rich history.
Throughout the years, Toledo has celebrated its diversity and vibrant spirit. It is our vision to commemorate the history of our community and highlight the mission of ADM.
ADM has a grain silo facility on the east bank of the Maumee River, near downtown Toledo. This facility is in a very prominent and visible location. It is can be seen from both Interstate 75, the river and the city’s downtown. The 160,000 square foot space designated for this installation is the western facing side of the facility and will include the 28 silos south of the facility office.
MEET THE ARTIST
Gabe Gault
A Southern California native, Gabe Gault spent his formative years in Venice Beach where creativity, popular culture, and its colorful residents made a lasting impression. A reading disability caused him to turn his full attention to art as a way to express himself and explore his identity as a Black American.
His current work employs classical painting techniques with modern subjects, with a particular focus on individuals dedicated to making a positive difference in our culture. His works often feature backgrounds with juxtaposing urban camouflage pattern and classical flora used as a story telling device. Much of his work showcases his intense passion and love for positive activism, which inspires him artistically, mentally, and spiritually.
When it came to the Glass City River Wall mural project, Gault knew that his art could tell a powerful story for Toledo. “I want to tell a story that is colorful, bold, simple and readable,” he said. “My objective is to offer both an origin story, which honors the original farmers of the region, as well as providing an inspirational image for the future: a cornucopia of abundance and prosperity which speaks to ADM’s corporate governance and philanthropic contributions.”
Notable works of Gabe Gault include: murals for the legendary Grande Ballroom in Detroit, Complex magazine, Nike and Nike Air. Commissions for the NAACP, Will and Jada Smith Foundation, UCLA’s Centennial “100 Years of Activism”, AMEND (13th Amendment) for Netflix, The Tommie Smith Youth Athletics Foundation, and ACLU of Southern California.
For more information on Gault and his work, visit WWW.GABEGAULT.COM
or find him @GABEGAULT on Instagram.THANK YOU TO OUR SPONSORS
Urban Sight Inc. is a non-profit entity partnered with the Toledo Community Foundation.
All donations made through this partnership are tax deductible.
For more information about how you can give, please contact us.- NEWS & UPDATES
THE GLASS CITY RIVER WALL — OFFICIAL PRESS RELEASE
Local Group Partners with ADM to Bring Silo Mural Project to Life
TOLEDO, Ohio, Feb. 2, 2021 — A group of local community advocates, business leaders and design professionals are collaborating to bring a unique, large-scale art installation to a ‘wall’ of silos in metro Toledo. The Glass City River Wall (GCRW) will be located at the ADM grain facility on the east bank of the Maumee River, and will include 28 silos measuring approximately 160,000 square feet. Click here to view the official media release. Or click here to download.
AMERICAN ADVERTISING FEDERATION COLLABORATION
Urban Sight Inc. is deeply invested in the Toledo, Ohio art community. Because of this, we have collaborated with the American Advertising Federation - Toledo Chapter (AAF Toledo) to facilitate the recruitment of local and diverse artists to take part in the community aspect of The Glass City River Wall project. With a strong connection to artists and marketing professionals in Toledo and the surrounding area, AAF Toledo will gather local artists interested in engaging with our visiting artist, Gabe Gault, the mural installation team from Detroit Sign Painters and achieved muralist, Eric Henn from Franklin, Ohio. Being a part of AAF Toledo not only provides these artists with the opportunity to learn about the project, but also introduces them to the benefits of AAF Toledo’s network, programming and resources.
LOURDES UNIVERSITY EDUCATION COLLABORATION
As part of the Glass City River Wall Education Collaboration, we are proud to partner with Lourdes University by engaging student artists. This educational and field experience will offer students the opportunity to engage with dynamic artist, Gabe Gault. Further interaction with the highly experienced mural installation team from Detroit Sign Painters and acclaimed muralist, Eric Henn will provide the foundation for this artistic immersion. Additionally, exposure to the workings of the non-profit sector, including Urban Sight Inc., will enhance this student experience.
