April 23, 2017
“THE CINCINNATI STRONGMAN”
By Jason Snell
Inspired by turn-of-the-century advertisements of the day, Jason Snell designed this wall to tell the story of Henry Holtgrewe—one of Cincinnati’s most colorful characters, touted to be the world’s strongest man. Snell, a founding partner of Cincinnati’s “We Have Become Vikings” agency, says “There are a few projects that come along that touch upon not just design, illustration, and problem solving—but those that involve history, community, storytelling, and neighborhood pride and education.” He says the Vine Street mural in Over-the-Rhine “is just that project.” Holtgrewe, originally from Hanover, Germany, was known by neighbors as a humble and gentle giant. Routinely turning down invitations to travel and compete he nevertheless enjoyed performing spectacular acts for neighbors and visitors—perhaps best known for a 1904 feat, reportedly crawling under a bench holding the entire Reds team (in excess of 4000 lbs) and lifting it on his back. @wehavebecomevikings @artworkscincy
