In the heart of North Omaha, the Bluestem Prairie neighborhood is undergoing a remarkable transformation, thanks to the creative vision of renowned artist Frankie Zombie. This once-notorious housing site is now a beacon of hope, as Habitat for Humanity Omaha works to provide affordable homeownership opportunities to the community. Zombie's bold and message-packed murals, inspired by the personal stories of local residents, are set to breathe new life into the neighborhood's communal spaces, creating a canvas for connection, inspiration, and a brighter future.

Unlocking the Power of Community Art to Revitalize Neighborhoods

Frankie Zombie's Artistic Journey Intersects with Omaha's Bluestem Prairie

Frankie Zombie, a nationally recognized artist known for his bold, abstract work on unconventional canvases, has found a new canvas to showcase his talents – the outdoor sports courts of Myott Park in Omaha's Bluestem Prairie neighborhood. Zombie's involvement in the project was sparked by a local Habitat for Humanity worker's social media post, which struck a chord with the artist, rekindling his own childhood memories of growing up in the Bronx, where it was often unsafe to play outside.

Transforming Myott Park: Bringing Community Stories to Life

Zombie's vision for the Myott Park project goes beyond just creating eye-catching murals. He aims to delve deeper, telling the stories of personal struggle and human connections that have shaped the Bluestem Prairie neighborhood. Through conversations with local residents, Zombie has crafted a design that reflects the community's past, present, and aspirations for the future. The basketball and pickleball courts will be adorned with message-packed murals, including a 3-D image of the word "VISION" that Zombie hopes will inspire and uplift the youth who use the space.

Honoring the Neighborhood's History and Celebrating its Transformation

The Bluestem Prairie neighborhood has a complex history, from the notorious Wintergreen Apartments that once stood there to the current efforts to revitalize the area through affordable homeownership opportunities. Zombie's work aims to acknowledge this past while celebrating the positive changes taking place. He has incorporated elements inspired by the teachings of Malcolm X, including a crown symbol within the pickleball courts, to represent the inherent brilliance and worth of the community's residents.

Empowering the Community through Collaborative Art

Zombie's approach to the Myott Park project is rooted in community engagement. He has made sure that local youth have been involved in the creative process, ensuring that the artwork reflects the voices and experiences of those who will use the space. This collaborative approach not only empowers the community but also fosters a sense of ownership and pride in the transformation of their neighborhood.

Spreading the Message of Bluestem's Revitalization

Zombie's work on the Myott Park project is not just about creating visually stunning murals. He sees it as an opportunity to share the stories and the impact of Habitat for Humanity Omaha's efforts with a wider audience. The artist is working on a new pilot project that will feature the Bluestem Prairie neighborhood, allowing him to showcase the personal struggles, triumphs, and human connections that are at the heart of this community's revitalization.