04/17/2026
“Miscommunication” (2025) by Martha Kuhlman draws inspiration from an encounter with pikas—small, rabbit-like animals in the Canadian Rockies known for the distinctive calls they use to communicate. In this piece, Martha reimagines those calls as layered conversations from different perspectives, reflecting the complexity of human dialogue.
📍 Empire St & Broad St, Providence, RI
At a time when meaningful conversation can feel increasingly difficult, this artwork uses humor and repetition to encourage approaching others with patience, listening, and understanding. It also highlights the vulnerability of pikas to climate change, connecting environmental awareness and human connection.
Martha Kuhlman is a Providence-based artist, mom, professor of Comparative Literature at Bryant University, and translator of graphic memoirs. A graduate of the Sequential Arts Workshop, she is deeply engaged in the local arts community, including hosting “Drink and Draw” sessions in Olneyville.
Learn more on our Ripples Page and explore how public art sparks dialogue across our city.
This painted Utility Box is part of the Ripples Project, a public art initiative led by The Avenue Concept in partnership with the City of Providence Mayor's Office and Providence Art Culture Tourism.
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