NCLAC Launches Public Art Initiative
Ruston residents have been frequenting the area’s outdoor recreation attractions recently in search of safe, socially distanced, and fun activities for the whole family. With improvements to the Rock Island Greenway, new downtown murals, more outdoor dining options, and all of the beautiful parks in the area, it’s clear that Ruston citizens value the cultural and social impact public spaces provide. To celebrate the unique public spaces around town, the North Central Louisiana Arts Council (NCLAC) has created an outdoor exhibition called “The Outside Show”.
Public art has many benefits to a community. The Americans for the Arts Public Art Network Council has written a green paper outlining how, “Public art activates the imagination and encourages people to pay attention and perceive more deeply the environment they occupy”. Now more than ever, public spaces create an opportunity to experience something unique and inspiring without limitations of being inside.
Artists of all kinds are at the root of the creative community, leading the way in alternative perspectives that incite social change, enhance quality of life, and deepen community connections. Art in public spaces break down the barriers of access whether they are physical, economical, academic, or systematic. “The Outside Show” invites creators of all kinds— performers, visual artists, designers, crafters, gardeners, and change-makers— to propose an idea for one of the sites that will enhance our city’s attachment to where we live.
NCLAC is working with several community partners to make this opportunity a reality. NCLAC is most grateful for Century Next Bank’s financial sponsorship to assist artists with their creations. Jessica Slaughter, Employee and Community Engagement Coordinator, says, “Century Next Bank is pleased to partner with NCLAC as the sponsor of ‘The Outdoor Show’. We think ‘The Outdoor Show’ offers a unique opportunity for artists to bring their art into the public sphere, and for the community to see common spaces transformed into something new through art. We hope many people take advantage of the opportunity to submit proposals, and we look forward to seeing the finished products all around our beautiful downtown.”
The Outside Show will be on display for 4 weeks in the public starting in May with sites dotted around Ruston. A list of locations can be found on “The Outside Show” website at nclacgallery.org/outside-show. Artists are responsible for installing and de-installing their own artworks. Artworks must be made of durable material and must be able to withstand the elements. Artists are responsible for any damages or theft that may occur. NCLAC has the right to deny proposals that don’t align with the scope of the exhibition or the organization’s mission statement. Our goal is to encourage self-reflection, awareness, and engagement with art to enhance our community’s attachment to where they live.
The deadline to submit proposals is Tuesday, April 13th. Email your idea and site location to info@nclac.org or apply online at nclacgallery.org/outside-show.
Written by Madeline Marak, NCLAC Executive Director.