Climb Cincy is a bouldering gym in historic Northside neighborhood in Cincinnati, OH. It is a community pillar for many in the area, not only for its exceptional climbing routes, but also for its commitment to fostering a safe and joyful third space for anyone regardless of race, gender, sexuality, income, or anything else. They have so many events and affinity groups to foster connection, offer aid to the community, and help people grow and learn. They perfectly embody the vibrant, silly, caring nature of the Northside neighborhood.
In the spring of 2024, Climb Cincy management reached out to the climbers and asked if anyone would be able to help bring an idea to life. One of the gym's exterior walls (clocking in a healthy 18 x 24 ft) was in desperate need of a makeover. Due to our backgrounds, skills, and attitudes, Danielle Schaefer and I were chosen to lead the project.
Check out Danielle's stunning work:
photo : Luke Draper
photo : hailey bollinger
photo : unknown
While several directions were considered in the ideation process. This design was selected with the multi-functional team for its abundance of climbing paraphernalia, whimsical nature, and vibrant colors.
in indoor rock-climbing, holds are usually brightly-colored, oddly shaped synthetic materials designed to mimic real rock features. all of which have silly little nick names like "jugs" and "slopers".
Ever climbing session doubles as a vocab lesson. neat!
A non-negotiable fashion statement in the crunchy community, a beanie effortlessly communicates one's love for nature and distaste for haircare.Though some climbers may be seen without a beanie, they wear one in spirit.
Climb cincy offers free coffee to climbers to fuel their hours spent bouldering and cursing the names of the route setters.
little does this octopus know, but zero graviy is hardly the place for an open-top mug.
no one tell him.
It's no secret that climbing can hurt. you can often spot climbers styling a bandage or two or their fingers where their skin is a couple layers too thin. some see it as a badge of honor.
the brush in the octopus's "hand" is a tool often used by climbers to clean a hold. chalked up hands often leave a bit of chalk behind and overtime, it builds up which decreases friction and makes it harder for other climbers to maintain their grip.
“The mural was envisioned as a way to turn our building into an outward reflection of the vibrant and goofy community inside. We wanted to bring creativity and color to our space, making our gym feel as dynamic and inviting as the people who climb here,”
-Meredith Meads, Climb Cincy Manager
