From tagging dumpsters in alleyways to painting murals in Denver’s Santa Fe Arts District, Josiah Lee Lopez shares his story of growing up on the West Side. Josiah’s memories invite us into the intersections of art and gentrification, the changing flavors and tastes in the city, and the loss of childhood friends and familiar faces.

Josiah Lopez uses the street as inspiration for his work. Whether murals, graffiti, or graphic design, his art touches on the complicated narratives of urban identity. Josiah received his Master of Fine Arts from the University of Colorado at Boulder and his work has been shown across the United States since 1998. See Josiah’s murals and more: https://www.josiahleelopez.com/ 

For a transcript of this episode and to learn more about the Building Denver Initiative visit www.HistoryColorado.org/Building-Denver. 

Mention this podcast to receive $2 off admission to Building Denver: Visions of the Capital City--an upcoming exhibition at the History Colorado Center beginning May 29, 2021.