Updated on 10/20/2025 to include information about the mural dedication event.
You’re Invited: Kransy Project Mural Dedication
Join us for the public dedication of the Kransy Project by Jenna Brownlee, in partnership with the the Czech Village New Bohemia SSMID and Modern Home Builders LLC.
Saturday, October 25, 2025, from 12:00 to 12:30 PM
123 16th Avenue SW, Cedar Rapids, IA 52404
The event will include a short program featuring the artist, Jenna Brownlee. We’ll also hear from the CVNB SSMID and Nick Ludwig, co-chair, Murals & More. Parking is available around Czech Village. All are welcome to attend!
Cedar Rapids, Iowa – Murals & More is thrilled to announce the installation of a vibrant new public art project, the Krasny Project, by Iowa-based artist Jenna Brownlee. This three-part mural series is transforming the newly constructed Krasny Square II development at 123 16th Avenue SW on the south end of Czech Village.
The mural installation will be painted in phases across three walls, with a target completion date by the end of October.
Drawing inspiration from the Czech Village’s rich cultural heritage, the Krasny Project celebrates the area’s welcoming spirit through bold colors and symbolic imagery that honors the traditional roots of the neighborhood. In Czech, the word krásný means “beautiful” or “handsome,” perfectly capturing the intention behind the work: to bring beauty, pride, and connection to the community.
“As a muralist, my mission is to create joyful, uplifting public art that celebrates a sense of place,” said Jenna Brownlee. “This project reflects the heart of Cedar Rapids’ Czech Village—its history, culture, and the energy of the people who live and gather here.”
The Krasny Project was made possible in a joint effort between Murals & More, the Czech Village & New Bohemia Self-Supported Municipal Improvement District (CVNB SSMID), and Modern Home Builders, LLC, as developers of the property.
“This project has been a great example of what is possible when groups with aligning goals come together to create something special,” said Nick Ludwig, co-chair of Murals & More. “Our board is grateful for the joint funding and effort from the SSMID and the developer to make this project a reality.”
The CVNB SSMID is supporting this project as part of the district’s outdoor beautification efforts.
“We are so excited about these murals as they lend pops of color and excitement to Czech Village,” said Monica Vernon, CVNB SSMID administrator. “The artwork is fun to look at and embodies the message ‘Vitáme Vás,’ meaning ‘we welcome you!’ to greet the many visitors to Czech Village.”
Modern Home Builders designed the residential townhomes with plans for mural installations around the development from the start.
“As developers and residents in this community, we highly value the addition of public art,” said Alex Frazier, developer with Modern Home Builders, LLC. “We’re intentional about the design and these murals add color and energy to the district, while incorporating the cultural elements that we love about Czech Village. We’re thrilled to provide the canvas to Jenna as she brings her vision to life.”
About Jenna Brownlee
Jenna Brownlee is a professional artist based in Iowa with over 60 murals across the U.S. and internationally. Her work is known for its vibrant color palettes, nature-inspired themes, and focus on community storytelling. She was the 2023 Des Moines Arts Festival Featured Artist and is represented by Liz Lidgett Gallery + Design. Learn more at jennabrownlee.com.
About Murals & More
Murals & More is a nonprofit organization dedicated to utilizing local architecture as the backdrop for public art in Cedar Rapids, Iowa. We connect artists with space for them to create and inspire. We believe in the power of art that is accessible to all, fostering a sense of belonging and opportunity for thought, contributing to our community’s identity and sense of place, and enriching cultural vibrancy as a reflection of the multifaceted people who live here.
About the Czech Village & New Bohemia Self-Supported Municipal Improvement District
Established in 2016, the Czech Village & New Bohemia Self-Supported Municipal Improvement District (CVNB SSMID) is a designated area in Czech Village and New Bohemia where commercial property owners collectively invest in the enhancement and revitalization of the district by agreeing to additional property tax. The funds are dedicated exclusively to projects and services that benefit the district. Learn more at bit.ly/cvnbssmid.
