The CEIBA Tree Project

The CEIBA Tree Project

Created by John Salgado Maldonado and funded by The Springboard for the Arts, with support from Purpose Artisans, CEIBA responded to the fear and isolation experienced in Willmar during increased ICE activities and abusive practices. The ceiba tree represents roots, resilience, protection, and collective belonging.

Phase One: Fifty family art kits containing stones and painting materials were distributed. Community members contributed more than 140 painted stones and 12 anonymous narratives. These pieces became a 36-inch ceiba tree mosaic carrying the message that we still have community.

Phase Two: The second phase transformed the artwork and testimonies into a community narrative booklet in English, Spanish, and Somali. It preserves participants’ anonymity while sharing experiences of migration, fear, family, faith, resilience, and belonging.

The mosaic, booklet, photographs, and selected narratives were brought together at Kankunapa during a Healing and Wellness Gathering. The presentation created a space for reflection, connection, and collective care while preserving an important moment in Willmar’s community history.

Here’s an excerpt of the booklet presentation. You can open and download the booklet by clicking on its cover.