Mankato Photographer’s Community Collages Reflect Diversity, Harmony, and Joy
During the isolating days of the COVID-19 pandemic, commercial photographer Josh Madson found himself back in his home state of Minnesota, far from the bustling environments of Los Angeles, New York City, and Tokyo, where he had built his career. In Mankato, amid a wave of personal reflection and amidst a global crisis that emphasized disconnection, Madson saw an opportunity to bridge gaps within his community through the lens of his camera.
A Return to Roots Amid Global Crisis
Madson’s return to Minnesota was marked by a sense of isolation familiar to many during the pandemic’s early days. “I remember feeling very isolated and alone. I had this feeling that if I felt this way, others were feeling the same,” Madson recalled. With photography as his tool, he sought not only personal reconnection but also a reintegration into his wider community. Thus, the “Community Collage” project was born—a labor of love involving over 150 hours of photo sessions intended to depict diversity, harmony, and joy.
Capturing Local Stories and Identities
The Community Collage project became a tapestry of stories and faces, bringing together people from all walks of life in the Mankato area. Madson’s images are more than photographs; they capture the essence of personal narratives. One poignant collaboration included a local group ‘Be the Light,’ committed to supporting women who have experienced breast cancer. Members shared powerful personal mementos and stories of perseverance and hope, illuminating their journeys through Madson’s art.
Maria, one participant, brought her late husband’s flag to be photographed—an intended gift to her children, connecting her past and future through Madson’s lens. These stories reflect the diversity and resilience of the community, elements that Madson has skillfully woven into his collages.
Prominent Displays and Community Reactions
Set against the backdrop of Madison East Center and the Mayo Clinic Health System in Mankato, Madson’s murals feature 632 employees, fostering a sense of belonging and camaraderie among them. His work has been a reminder of shared humanity even in professional settings, where colleagues often change their backgrounds to portraits of friends and family, enhancing a shared sense of community.
Local Impact and Future Directions
Madson’s initiative took a grassroots approach, supported by generous community donations that helped make his vision a reality. This aspect of the project underscores its reach and impact—it is not just a visual celebration but a community-driven movement. “Having our stories and smiles displayed means the world to us,” noted Jill Peterson, a nurse at Mayo Clinic Health System. “It connects us beyond our roles, reminding us of our shared values.”
Madson has also extended this community engagement through film, releasing a short documentary titled “Community Collage: The Bright Side of Community,” with plans for a longer version to be shared in 2025. This documentary further explores the project’s emotional landscape and amplifies the voices and stories captured in his collages.
Expanding the Reach of Art
The success of the project in Mankato has led to exhibitions across the region, including Gustavus Adolphus College and areas like New Ulm and La Crosse, Wisconsin. Future expansions are planned for Rochester and Jacksonville, Florida. Each new location represents an opportunity to foster connections, spark dialogues, and remind people of the beauty found in unity.
Nurturing Dreams and Creativity
Madson encourages others to break free from self-imposed limitations, to achieve their dreams, and leverage their creative talents. “If there’s a dream you have or something you want in your life, don’t let any self-limitations stop you from putting one foot in front of another. Use that gift you’ve been given, the ability to create something and do something,” he asserts.
Resources for Residents
Residents interested in viewing these works or participating in future projects can find more information at local exhibitions or visit the project’s website at communitycollage.org. Community meetings and forums will also be held to discuss new initiatives, ensuring continued engagement and representation for all area residents.
In capturing the essence of Mankato through diverse lenses, Josh Madson has not only showcased the individual uniqueness of the city’s inhabitants but has also woven a collective story of resilience, joy, and unity. His Community Collage project stands as a vibrant testament to the power of art to unite and heal, offering a reflection that speaks to both the heart of the local community and the human experience at large.
