City of Atlanta named finalist for Public Art Challenge

Winning cities to be announced in May


?The Mayor’s Office of Cultural Affairs (OCA) has announced that the City of Atlanta is a finalist to possibly receive up to $1 million as part of the Bloomberg Philanthropies Public Art Challenge. The new program focuses on supporting temporary public art projects that engage communities, and encourage civic and social dialogue. Atlanta, along with 11 other cities has been chosen to submit a full proposal.
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?Back in 2014, Bloomberg Philanthropies invited mayors of U.S. cities with 30,000 residents or more to submit proposals for innovative temporary public art projects that address issues of civic concern, and showcase a close collaboration between artists and arts organizations with city government. In all, 230 cities submitted their project proposals.
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?Whereas project ideas covered everything from revitalization of Downtown areas, and vacant neighborhoods to promoting environmental sustainability, the City of Atlanta’s proposal focused on a way to “activate Freedom Park,” via interactive art installations. A collection of glass arches designed by artist Xenobia Bailey would be installed throughout the 200-acre public park in what’s being referred to — per the city’s press release — as “the heart of Atlanta’s civil rights district.” The installations would encourage viewers to spark conversations about freedom. Along with Bailey’s arches, four local artists would be invited to create projects highlighting the city’s rich civil rights history, as well addressing contemporary issues.
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?”We are proud that Atlanta was selected as a finalist for the Bloomberg Philanthropies Public Art Challenge,” Mayor Kasim Reed said in a statement. “The City of Atlanta understands that the arts play an essential role in defining the cultural vitality of our city and has made it a priority to create new programs and arts opportunities for Atlanta residents.”
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?The Public Art Challenge grant will not cover 100 percent of the project costs. The funds will actually go toward development, execution, and project-related expenses, while serving as more of a financial jumping point. At least three cities will be chosen in May to launch and complete their projects over the course of 24 months. For more information about the Public Art Challenge can be found, here