Creative Placekeeping

APANO’s creative place-keeping projects use cultural strategies to build connection and counter displacement in the Jade District and greater East Portland. Our creative place-keeping efforts are designed to reflect and honor the history of our neighborhood, resist the disconnection caused by gentrification and displacement, and cultivate a strong social fabric. Since 2014, APANO has facilitated regular opportunities for community members, artists, local organizations, and small businesses to co-create murals, temporary performances, exhibitions, installations, and more that recognize and sustain the unique cultural ecologies of the Jade District and greater East Portland.

‍Our creative place-keeping work is guided by the Jade-Midway Districts Art Plan and the Orchards of 82nd (O82) Art Plan. In order to put community voices at the center, both Art Plans were created with extensive community engagement. APANO continues to work closely with residents of O82 and community members in the Jade District and greater East Portland to ensure that our efforts are community-driven and community-led.

Find examples of APANO’s creative placekeeping work below. If you’d like to learn more, contact Coua Xiong, Cultural Strategy Director, at coua@apano.org.