Public Art Mural Commission - Idaho Black History

The Department of Arts and History of Boise issued a call for artists to create murals that build on the history of the Erma Hayman House and the River Street Neighborhood. Artist Mungo Ligoya responded to this opportunity and created two expansive murals titled "The Writing of Idaho's Black History," now on permanent display at the Boise Public Library and the Erma Hayman House.

The murals depict influential Black figures who have shaped Idaho's culture and community, including Elvina Moulton (one of the first Black residents in Idaho), Erma Hayman (a longtime Boise resident and neighborhood advocate), Dayo Ayodele (executive and producing artistic director of Global Lounge), and Jerome Mapp (the first Black Boise city council member).

Ligoya's artistic approach uses varying color schemes: historical figures are portrayed in black-and-white, while those still active today appear in vivid color. The phrase "Idaho's Black history is still being written" stretches across the mural at Erma Hayman House. At the library location, Ligoya included a frame with a question mark to encourage younger generations to continue this important work.

The murals will remain on display until spring 2026 as part of a rotating six-month public art cycle. Following this exhibition, artist Hallie Maxwell will be featured in the next cycle. The Boise City Department of Arts and History states that these rotating murals help visually define the city's character, reflect community values, spark conversation, and inspire creativity.