Seeing the Big River: Mississippi River Bound #178
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 #178
Photo: Peter L. Johnson
Artists statement
The receding spring wildness of the Big River left behind this Mississippi Mud on a Harriet Island sidewalk in St. Paul. As I was working I considered how hard the River's ecosystem has to struggle to survive in the impoverished state we have caused.
The FMR connection
Sometimes mud is just mud, but it can also be a reminder of the problems caused by excess sediment in the Mississippi River.
FMR works on this issue in many ways, and offers just as many ways for supporters and members to be involved:
- At home, you can landscape for the river.
- Enjoy the outdoors and help plant native trees and shrubs to prevent erosion at one of several upcoming planting and restoration activities on the events calendar.
- Learn about and advocate for the Mississippi River Clean-Up plan, which directly addresses and offers a solutions addressing this issue of vital importance.
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.