Tamara Isfeld
2026 Mid-Career Project Grantee | $10,000
River of Western Spirit: A Community Mosaic Tribute to Granite Falls’ Western Fest
This project transforms the curved seating wall along Main Street into a vibrant mosaic celebrating Granite Falls’ Western Fest and PRCA (Professional Rodeo Cowboys Association) Rodeo heritage. Designed and guided by the artist, community members of all ages contribute tiles depicting rodeo imagery, Western symbols, and festival moments. The mural was installed in public view, creating a lasting visual tribute that strengthens community pride, connects generations, and celebrates local culture through participatory art.
A design phase began in January, followed by hands-on mosaic work during the late winter months. Community members of all ages could participate during open workshops, and students from both local and regional schools contributed to the mosaic. During a regional 6-school art day, students who signed up for the mosaic workshop created stars that were incorporated directly into the final design.
Tamara Isfeld is a visual artist and creative director from Granite Falls, Minnesota, specializing in mosaics, murals, and public art. With over 20 years of experience, she creates work that celebrates community, local history, and shared stories. Trained in Art Education, she combines her practice with teaching, mentoring, and leading her local arts council, developing programs that engage people of all ages. Tamara travels regionally to execute murals, mosaics, and site-specific sculptures, consistently exhibiting her work. Her projects emphasize collaboration, accessibility, and storytelling, transforming public spaces into vibrant places of connection, creativity, and pride.
The McKnight Foundation generously enables Forecast to provide Professional Development Grants for mid-career artists seeking to expand their work in the field of public art. Forecast mid- and early-career grants are designed to support independent projects, leadership development, professional development, risk-taking, multidisciplinary approaches, and collaborative problem-solving in the field of public art.
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