10 Things We Loved about 2022! 

 
New branding at CEZ HQ on the corner of University Ave and Vandalia Street. "Always Watching" mural (left) by Wundr and Biafra Inc.

1. CEZ HEADQUARTERS at 2171 University Ave.W. We celebrated one year in our new home with branded signage, a new mural, and three nonprofit tenants. 


2. MORE TREES! For the second year the 100 Tree Initiative brought together our greater Saint Anthony Park community to plant more urban trees for better health, a cleaner environment, and hands-on grassroots response to climate change. 


3. TIME SPENT TOGETHER! Community events, tours, and public programs brought old friends and new neighbors together for shared experiences throughout the Zone.


4. WATERING WEDNESDAYS! When weekly watering of the new trees became arduous, community volunteers gave time and resources for a new mobile watering trailer.

5. MORE PUBLIC ART! Now in its third year, the CEZ's annual mural and art festival oversaw 14 outdoor murals and 20+ tours and events, while raising the identity and profile of the Zone as a center of creative economic activity. 

6. OUR RICH & DIVERSE CREATIVE COMMUNITY! We recognize the importance of full representation of BIPOC, women, and non-binary artists. We are proud to host the largest concentration of murals by Indigenous women in the Twin Cities!

7. COMMUNITY INVESTMENT! A new CEZ Real Estate Investment Cooperative, set to launch in January, will allow individuals to cooperatively invest their money in real estate for the benefit of our community. Watch for co-op membership in the new year!

8. AMAZING PEOPLE AND PARTNERSHIPS! Our work is only made possible with the wisdom, guidance, and generosity of our community partners, business owners, funders, and volunteers. Let us know if you'd like to help!

9. CREATIVITY HAPPENS HERE! From furniture to fitness, it's hard to keep up with all the people and businesses that #MakeItHere. But we are so glad they are here!

10. GREATER VISIBILITY AND AWARENESS! Formed over a decade ago, the CEZ has grown its visibility and reputation as community builders and a city-recognized creative district. We have planted our roots as connectors and instigators, and look forward to another year of fostering community, economic, and environmental well-being and belonging in the Zone. 

At the Center of Our Being



"This work was inspired by the idea that as we journey through life, each of us holds near and dear deep aspirations, goals, a vision or purpose, that’s as unique to each of us as our own life experiences.

As we work towards that goal, we are bound to encounter ups and downs, or wins and losses along the way. When we keep our head up and stay true to our path, I believe we will be guided towards our deepest calling and purpose...." 

— Taylor Berman, 2022 Chroma Zone Muralist

Your investment in the Creative Enterprise Zone — the district and the 501(c)3 organization — supports community-driven programs, investments, and public initiatives that attract and support creative people and businesses to #MakeItHere.