A new program will use public art as a way to connect local artists with the community and engage downtown Dayton residents, workers, and visitors with their city in a unique way. This new civic engagement project, Urban Art Intersections, will enliven downtown’s streetscapes and build upon the success of other recently completed public art projects.
Local artists are invited to submit their ideas to activate blank or otherwise inactive outdoor wall space downtown. The project scope includes identifying potential mural sites and color scheme. These locations could include downtown buildings, bridge underpasses, or other “blank” surfaces.
“Urban Art Intersections supports initiatives identified by the community in the Greater Downtown Dayton Plan,” said Downtown Dayton Partnership (DDP) President Sandra Gudorf. “Urban vibrancy has long been a part of our city’s strategic plan for attracting investment and create a thriving downtown.”
Urban Art Intersections is a joint program with the DDP, the Dayton Visual Arts Center (DVAC), and K12 Gallery and TEJAS. Similar to another successful public art project featuring the River Run Mural at RiverScape MetroPark, DVAC is coordinating the artist submission process, using the Call for Entries website. K12 Gallery and TEJAS will execute the application of the selected design(s).
An information meeting has been scheduled for 11 am to 12 pm on Saturday, Sept. 17, at DVAC, 118 N. Jefferson St. in downtown Dayton. Anyone who has questions about the project, how to apply, or any other inquiries about the program may attend the free session.
Submissions are due by 11:59 pm. EST on Tuesday, Oct. 4. Here’s the link to submit.
For details on the proposal requirements, eligibility, site selection, guidelines and evaluation criteria, and other specifics about Urban Art Intersections, visit the Call for Entries site. Urban Art Intersections was made possible with support from a grant from the Ohio Arts Council as well as support from project partners DVAC, K12 Gallery & TEJAS, and the DDP.
