The Lake Superior Zoo invites the community to be part of a meaningful new public art installation that supports rescued animals. Through the “Piecing Together a Future” mosaic mural project, donors can personalize hand-painted tiles that will become part of a vibrant, lasting work of art, to be enjoyed by Zoo guests for years to come.
At the heart of the mural will be a lush capybara scene, surrounded by individually crafted
tiles representing supporters, families and organizations. Each tile will be locally sourced
in Minnesota and hand-painted by renowned Duluth artist Karin Kraemer in her distinctive
Maiolica style. No two tiles will be alike, and every purchase helps improve habitats and
provides expert care for rescued and endangered animals.
Community members can personalize their tile by selecting a South American animal:
cotton-top tamarin, macaw, prehensile-tailed porcupine, frog, capybara, kinkajou,
armadillo, sloth, tortoise, or iguana, along with a name or message. The finished mural will
serve as a lasting tribute visible to thousands of Zoo guests each year.
Proceeds from the project will directly fund habitat improvements and ongoing expert care
for animals rescued from SeaQuest, reinforcing the Zoo’s commitment to providing a safe
and thriving environment for wildlife in need.
“This project reflects what rescue truly means—long-term dedication, care, and
community support,” said a Lake Superior Zoo representative. “Every tile tells a story and
plays a role in building a brighter future for the animals we serve.”
Donation Opportunities & Recognition
Supporters can participate at several levels:
Supporter ($25–$299): Includes a personalized thank you email with rescue updates, an exclusive Lake
Superior Zoo sticker, and a commemorative capybara footprint.
Guardian ($300–$1,199): Includes all Supporter benefits, plus donor name featured on a mural tile and an
invitation to a private Capybara Party at the Zoo (for donations made before July 31, 2026).
Hero ($1,200+): Includes all Guardian benefits, plus a set of four personalized tiles with optional
company logo placement.
The Zoo also recognizes Happy Tails Veterinary Hospital as the Presenting Sponsor of the
“New Beginnings” Tile Mural, receiving prominent recognition and custom engagement
opportunities.
Leave Your Mark
The “Piecing Together a Future” initiative is more than a donation — it is part of a legacy.
Each tile reflects compassion, community and a shared commitment to helping rescued
animals not just survive but thrive.To reserve a tile and become part of the mural, visit www.lszoo.org.
