‘Lake Street Speaks’ book honors community art in wake of George Floyd’s death

Following the murder of George Floyd, many used art to express their grief and to try and uplift a community reeling from his death.

A lot of that work was painted on plywood used to protect businesses and now it’s getting commemorated and preserved in a book titled "Lake Street Speaks."

All proceeds will be supporting nonprofits ran by people of color:

• Appetite for Change
• MIGIZI
• Memorialize the Movement
• The Real Minneapolis

Beautifully laid out through the book, the artwork that popped up after the unrest following the death of Floyd is paired with poems from north Minneapolis poet Rashauenea Ambers-Winston.

“It brings a lot of deep emotions for me,” Ambers-Winston said about "Lake Street Speaks."

“I feel like the art in the book influences others to make a difference and recognize the issues that are going on,” Ambers-Winston added about the social and racial injustices she said are still happening in the city.

While some of the artwork remains in the community, others have been removed. The book’s creator, Susan Shields, said this will allow the art to stay alive.

“What I saw was this beautiful art museum of masterpieces that was only temporary,” Shields said. “My goal was to really preserve them in this art book.”

Ambers-Winston will recite her poems and join Shields for a book signing from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 9 at Midtown Global Market. You can also purchase the book online.