Local artist honors Japanese American History
Spokane, WASH. (May 6, 2026)- A new public art installation is set to transform a downtown alleyway into a vibrant celebration of culture, history, and community. Led by local artist Lisa Soranaka, the mural will be located in the heart of downtown Spokane’s historic international district in the alley behind Madeleines Café at 415 W Main Ave.
Timed to coincide with Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month, the mural honors the legacy and contributions of Japanese Americans in Spokane while breathing new life into an underutilized urban space. Painting is scheduled to begin Tuesday, May 12.
This project marks the first effort to install a series of murals intended to highlight Spokane’s diverse cultural roots and the stories that originated in its downtown core. Organizers hope it will serve as a catalyst for additional public art installations in alleyways and overlooked spaces throughout downtown.
Lisa Soranaka, a Spokane-based artist, is known for her thoughtful, community-centered work that explores identity, heritage, and place. Drawing inspiration from her Japanese American background, Soranaka’s art often reflects themes of resilience, intergenerational storytelling, and cultural pride. Her work has been featured in regional exhibitions and public art projects, where she is recognized for blending traditional influences with contemporary design. Through this mural, Soranaka aims to create a space for reflection and recognition while contributing to a more inclusive visual landscape in downtown Spokane.
The project is made possible through funding from American Rescue Plan Act recovery dollars, with additional support helping bring the vision to life. Organizers are actively seeking partners and sponsors to expand the initiative and bring more murals to downtown Spokane.
Special thanks are extended to RenCorp Realty for providing the wall space, and Spokane Arts for managing the project and supporting its implementation.
Community members are encouraged to visit the site during the painting process and watch as the mural comes to life. To make a tax-deductible contribution to future murals in downtown Spokane, contact the Downtown Spokane Partnership at info@downtownspokane.org or call 509.456.0580.