Seeing the Big River: Mississippi River Bound #171

There are many ways to experience the big river. In this regular feature well "See the Big River" through the eyes of FMRs Artist-in-Residence, Peter L. Johnson. Peter works alongside FMRs staff and volunteers as we strive to protect and improve this cherished community asset.

Mississippi River Bound #171

Photo: Peter L. Johnson

Artists statement

Unfortunately, whatever ends up in the gutter finds its way into the Mississippi River. No treatment. No filters. The source of our drinking water just accepts our poisonous waste. I found this automobile gasoline running towards a drain in a McDonalds parking lot. We turn a blind eye and the Big Rivers ecosystem endures more business as usual.

The FMR connection

To educate people about how our yards and streets drain to and impact the river, FMR operates the storm drain stenciling program in St. Paul. Learn more or schedule an educational and fun service outing with your class, church, club, business or other group via our stenciling page.

For an overview of Minnesotas water quality issues, from Clean Water Act basics to how polluted bodies of water are classified and dealt with, see FMRs Impaired Waters 101.

About the artist

Peter L. Johnson draws upon his varied background as a documentary photographer, solo street performance artist, painter and social activist to create the overall tenet of his artistic practice, Seeing the Big River. His lyrical photographs, collected "specimens" and gasoline-infested Mississippi Mud paintings discover beauty amongst the damage we do to our environment. Learn more at peterljohnson.com.