Calling All Artists: “We Heart Local Art”
Local Artists Featured Above (Left to Right): Eric Anderson, Tamsin Barlow, and Cassandra Buck
With the upcoming 3rd Street Alley Project, the Rochester Downtown Alliance (RDA) is excited to announce the expansion of ARTWalk. Our process begins with a call for local and regional artists to submit photos of new or existing works of art, in any medium, for possible use in murals, alley doors, or other arts-based placemaking projects in Downtown.
The RDA’s goal for the ARTWalk expansion within the 3rd Street alley is to capture the energy and vibrancy of our local art community to transform the physical environment and the public’s perception of how this underutilized space is seen and used.
Why We Need Local Artists
Canvas & Chardonnay owners Leah Bee and Tyler Aug say they believe a local public art initiative is important to every city’s urban landscape. “Art, design, and color are an integral part of a livable environment for work and play, enhancing our everyday experience in Downtown Rochester,” says Aug. “A healthy ‘Artscape’ promotes a happy brain for travelers and residents, while enhancing the character of our everyday sights, buildings, and daily doorways.” Bee agrees. “We fully encourage local artists to get involved and support this great opportunity to reclaim public space for fresh visual ideas and help create the future of our everyday experiences in Rochester, MN. Let’s make our city a special place to live and work, and an unforgettable experience for all of our welcomed guests!”
Next Steps for Artists
RDA’s Senior Director for Placemaking Karli McElroy says the organization RDA is looking for as many local submissions for this project as possible. “This is a perfect opportunity for the local arts community to have their artwork showcased publicly in Downtown Rochester - and also receive support to continue creating!”
The call for artist entries opens March 1, 2019, and closes for initial consideration on March 31, 2019. For more information about the call-out for artists please click here or contact RDA Senior Director of Placemaking, Karli McElroy at kmcelroy@rdowntownalliance.com or at 507-216-9883.