Before I Die I Want To...
After the loss of a loved-one, New Orleans artist Candy Chang, wanted to turn an abandoned building across from her home into something that would allow her neighbors to reveal something important, so she turned an entire exterior wall into a giant chalkboard. Then she handmade a stencil with a simple message: Before I die, I want to.
Given the public nature of the project, it took a little bit of bureaucratic wrangling to get everything approved. Luckily, we were able to work with the wonderful team at the White Bear Center for the Arts and the very helpful staff at the City of White Bear Lake to make our vision a reality.
From the moment people had access to the wall, we were overwhelmed by the response of the White Bear Lake community. It’s been humbling and wonderful to watch people take part in this project. One of the most remarkable things about “Before I Die,” is that the work becomes more powerful when more people participate. One entry can make you smile or think; others can bring a tear to your eye.
Because of your selflessness and willingness to contribute, I get to
cross something off of my bucket list. So, from the bottom of my heart, I thank you.
-Scott Mueller

Here’s a little gallery of our progress…
