If you’re in the Pearl District anytime through Sunday, July 11, stop by The Armory to see a mural titled, “A Portrait of James Baldwin”, by local multi-disciplinary artist Daren Todd. The mural measures more than 10 feet high and is painted on a wooden backdrop that’s installed in front of the big doors on the 10th Street side of The Armory.

Baldwin is an icon in the LGBTQ community. He has written poetry, speeches, plays, and literature and is an influential civil rights advocate and leader. Baldwin’s work and success as a queer black man has inspired Todd personally, and that’s why he chose Baldwin to be the subject of this mural.

Todd’s work is part of an ongoing mural series by Portland artists.

Learn more about Todd’s mural project and watch a video of the insallation process.

The Armory houses the Portland Center Stage at The Armory, an organization that hosts a range of stage performances and education programs in the performing arts. The venue’s address is 128 NW 11th Avenue.