This one of a kind, creative placemaking project exemplifies the potential of business partnerships with their local MainStreet organization, as well as the incredible ability of community to come together to complete a project. The Grand Union Tea Company photo mural is a life-size depiction of the building and its’ owner Fannie Paxton, which historically occupied the now vacant space adjacent to the Downtown Junkers upcycling shop.
The photo mural and fence portion of the project was funded in part by a New Mexico Resiliency Alliance grant and constructed entirely by the business owners and community members in time for Farmington’s Summer Artwalk in 2019. The fencing was made almost entirely with recycled materials and the new gate features a custom flower design. Downtown Junkers also received NMMS technical assistance in the development of a phased design to transform the vacant lot into a community gathering space to support upcycling workshops, small events, and arts/crafts fairs.
The courtyard design includes phased improvements such as repurposing the old greenhouse structure for shade and lighting, upcycling the existing corn husker into a fountain, and renovating a trailer into a stage. Additional improvements include workshop benches and seating, a children’s play area, and murals.
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