City in Color brings a new vibrancy to Downtown Des Moines through this abstract mural. Van Holmgren, in collaboration with Liz Lidgett Gallery and Design, aimed to brighten up Elevator’s Des Moines location at 12th and Mulberry Street, adding a bold new landmark just 2 blocks away from the iconic Pappajohn Sculpture Park. Founded in 2021 by Shannon and Emiliano Lerda, Elevator combines co-working and warehousing in a unique model designed for small businesses with physical goods.
“It’s an honor to bring color and life to a space that so many people will see every day in Downtown DSM,” said Holmgren.
The completed mural serves as both a welcoming landmark for the business community and a testament to what collaborative partnerships can achieve when supporting both economic growth and artistic expression. Together, Elevator and Operation Downtown, in partnership with the Greater Des Moines Partnership, have created a lasting contribution to Downtown Des Moines that will inspire businesses, residents, and visitors for years to come.

