Artist Peyton Scott Russell to paint live murals during global conference on racial equity

Photo: Peyton Scott Russell

Artist Peyton Scott Russell will create two 8-foot murals in real time during the 7th World Conference on Remedies to Racial and Ethnic Economic Inequality, inviting the public and international delegates to join him in painting as part of a first-of-its-kind focus on arts and activism.

The live mural sessions will take place Aug. 3 and 4 from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. on the East Patio of the University of Minnesota's Humphrey School of Public Affairs. The free event is open to the public.

Russell creates large-scale murals which often explore themes of racial justice. His portrait of George Floyd became an internationally recognized symbol of resistance, said art has the power to inspire social change.

"Art can shake up the world," he said, adding that he supports extending protections for street artists in conflict zones similar to those of journalists under international agreements.

Russell said bringing artists and conference delegates together in Minneapolis carries special meaning after participating in the conference in Cape Town, South Africa, in 2024.

"Cape Town was powerful, but having the opportunity to invite delegates from India, Brazil and South Africa to paint live with me in my hometown is life changing," Russell said.

Conference organizers said this year's event is the first to intentionally highlight the role of arts and activism alongside discussions on racial and ethnic economic inequality, food access, climate change and maternal health. 

The conference runs Aug. 3-5 and marks the first time in more than a decade that it has returned to the University of Minnesota after previous gatherings in South Africa, Australia and Brazil. 

Russell will also host a free public exhibition Aug. 5 at Roberts Gallery in north Minneapolis.