DC Creates Public Art

We've Moved!

2009-10-13T17:04:00.006-04:00

Thank you to everyone who has been reading our blog. The DC Creates! Public Art blog has moved to the DC Commission on the Arts and Humanities blog. Please see the link to stay updated on what we are doing: http://thedcarts.wordpress.com/public-art/.

CALL TO WARD 7 and WARD 8 ARTISTS AND WRITERS!

2009-07-15T15:21:00.001-04:00

Deadline: FRIDAY, AUGUST 21, 2009 at 5:30pm
Artist Honorarium: $2,500

The DC Commission on the Arts and Humanities (DCCAH) in collaboration with DC Public Library is seeking East-of-the-River artists, including writers, to submit proposals for four prominent areas inside the new Benning and Anacostia Libraries which are expected to open in the spring of 2010. The proposed artwork sites provide artists and writers the opportunity to display their work in a large-scale format in a public building.

Link to the call!

QUESTIONS?
Contact Rachel Dickerson at rachel.dickerson@dc.gov
(202) 724-5613 phone
(202) 727-3148 TDD
www.dcarts.dc.gov

London artist makes living monument in Trafalgar Square!

2009-07-08T09:59:00.002-04:00

Sculptor Antony Gormley is inviting UK residents and visitors to spend one hour atop Trafalgar Square’s Fourth Plinth. This empty public space, originally intended for statues of kings and generals, will house one member of the public each hour for 100 days this summer, nonstop. The artist intends to elevate everyday citizens and their lives to the status of monumental art, encouraging reflection on the individual in contemporary society.

2400 lucky volunteers are invited to do what they please atop the Fourth Plinth- and some have chosen some interesting activities…
on streaming video!

ART BANK 2009 Call to Artists

2009-06-29T15:13:00.001-04:00

Deadline: Wednesday, July 8, 2009 at 5:30 pm

The DC Commission on the Arts and Humanities is purchasing artwork to be part of the District of Columbia’s 2009 Art Bank Program. The Art Bank is a growing collection of moveable works funded through DC Creates Public Art Program.

Works in the collection are owned by the DC Commission on the Arts and Humanities and are loaned to other District government agencies for display in public areas of government buildings. This collection helps preserve the city’s past and is an important legacy for future generations. Currently, nearly 2000 artworks are on display in over 150 District government agencies. This is an opportunity for artists to exhibit their work as part of our continued commitment to supporting our vibrant artistic community and its excellence.

For more information, email Rachel Dickerson or call (202) 724-5613. Download the application*

CALL FOR ARTISTS:TAKOMA METRO PUBLIC ART PROJECT

2009-06-29T15:03:00.001-04:00

Deadline: Friday, August 14, 2009 at 5.30pm
Budget: $250,000

The DC Creates! Public Art Program at the DC Commission on the Arts and Humanities (DCCAH), in collaboration with the Washington Area Metropolitan Transit Authority, Art in Transit Program (WMATA) and the Takoma community, seek an artist or art team to design, create, and install artwork that will be located within the Takoma Metro underpass. The goal of this project is to create a vibrant and inviting gateway to the Takoma DC community. The colorful artwork will provide an “avenue” for residents, commuters and visitors to enjoy, admire and revitalize the community as well as express the unique story of historic Takoma.
Link to the application

QUESTIONS?

Contact Rachel Dickerson
Rachel.Dickerson@dc.gov
(202) 724-5613 phone
(202) 727-3148 TDD

MAIL OR DELIVER ENTRIES TO:

DC Commission on the Arts and Humanities
1371 Harvard Street NW
Washington DC 20009
Attn: Rachel Dickerson, DC Creates Public Arts Manager
Takoma Metro Public Art Project

Art Salon - Monday June 1

2009-05-28T11:11:00.011-04:00

Join the DC Commission on the Arts & Humanities for Art Salon--
a monthly convergence of artists, techies, green-collars, art enthusiasts
and educators that are creating the momentum for the new era of art.

Art Salon is modeled after the Paris salons of the late 19th century to inspire and
provoke the minds of the creative community.

MONDAY JUNE 1
7pm to 10pm
Event Designed by Beth Baldwin | Soundscapes by DJ Harry Dixon

Each month, we gather at a different location.
This month, we invite you to converge @

Artomatic
55 M Street SE 7th Fl.
above the Navy Yard Metro station (Green Line)
RSVP: dccahevents@gmail.com

It's Grant Time!

2009-05-19T13:28:00.005-04:00

The DC Commission on the Arts and Humanities is renewing its commitment to supporting local artists and arts organizations through its distribution of grants for the fiscal year 2010 grant season. According to the National Assembly of State Arts Agencies, the District of Columbia ranks first among states in per capita investment in the arts.

Executing world-class arts and cultural programming requires a joint effort of the Commission and the nonprofit organizations it serves. The Commission is dedicated to growing and retaining the city’s artist-community base by offering free grant writing assistance. Resources include an online instructional video; one-on-one appointments with program coordinators; technical assistance workshops on “Workshop Wednesdays” with webinar access; and a new public resource center with computer workstations located within the Commission’s office that are available weekdays from 1 pm to 4 pm.

The DC Commission on the Arts and Humanities provides grants, programs and educational activities that encourage diverse artistic expression and learning opportunities, so that all District of Columbia residents and visitors can experience the rich culture of the city. The DC Commission on the Arts and Humanities is an agency funded in part by the National Endowment for the Arts.

For more information on grant opportunities, or to receive a grant application, call (202) 724-5613 or visit www.dcarts.dc.gov.

Artistic Bike Rack Dedication

2009-04-24T12:06:00.009-04:00

Mayor Fenty and Councilmember Wells to Join DC Commission on the Arts and Humanities and the District Department of Transportation for

Bike Rack Dedication

The DC Commission on the Arts and Humanities in collaboration with the District Department of Transportation (DDOT) and Ward 6 Councilmember Tommy Well's will mark the completion of twenty-eight artistically designed bike racks by six local artists.

The artists whose designs were selected are Matt Barinholtz, Karin Edgett, William Gordon, Carolina Mayorga, Melinda Merinsky and Joe Sutliff. All six bike rack designs will be displayed at the dedication event.

The DC Creates Public Art Artistic Bike Rack proposal invited local artists to enhance the city’s standard bike racks and create unique designs that could be placed in locations city-wide. Artists were encouraged to incorporate their interpretation of the “DC experience” into their artwork as well as consider particular locations for the placement of the work. The intent of the project is to encourage more people to use bicycles and increase the number of bike racks throughout the city that are both functional and artistic.

For more information contact Deirdre Ehlen at Deirdre.Ehlen@dc.gov or 202-724-5613.

Adams Morgan Community Survey

2009-04-22T11:21:00.017-04:00

The DC Commission on the Arts and Humanities (DCCAH), in collaboration with the Department of Transportation (DDOT) and members of the Adams Morgan community selected three public art proposals to be reviewed by the larger Adams Morgan community. One of these proposals will be selected and installed as a permanent outdoor public art installation for the corner of Columbia Road and Adams Mill Road, NW in Washington D.C. The objective of this project is to create a distinctive art piece that communicates the history and current character of the surrounding community and commercial district. The work should reflect the cultural diversity of the neighborhood and enhance the pedestrian experience.

Please review each of the three proposals and answer the questions in the survey HERE.

Background

Design Considerations for Artwork:

Focus attention on Adams Morgan rich and diverse cultural heritage

Create a landmark and/or emblem that becomes an neighborhood identifier

Contribute positively to the visual character and texture of the community by creating a distinctive work(s)

Attract pedestrians to the site

Foster collective memory

Give meaning to place by recalling local history

Pro

Project Timeline:

November 21, 2008 Application Deadline

December 12, 2008 Announcement of Semi-finalist

Mid-February, 2009 Presentations of Design Proposals

Mid-April, 2009 Community Review of Semi-Finalists

Early May, 2009 Panel Review Semi-Finalist proposals

Late May, 2009 DCCAH Commissioners Select Finalist

Early June, 2009 Announcement of Selected Artist

Winter/Spring 2010 Installation of Artwork

Panel Members:

Anne Ashmore-Hudson: DCCAH Commissioner

Marvin Bowser: DCCAH Commissioner

Josh Gibson: Adams Morgan Community member

Mindy Moretti: ANC1C

Al Jirikowic: Adams Morgan BID member and Business Representative

Ernesto Giron: Adams Morgan Restaurant Business Representative

Aneikan Udofia: Adams Morgan Community Member/Artist

Cesar Maxit: Adams Morgan Community Member/ Artist

Lonny Bradley: Adams Morgan Community Member/Architect

Proje

Desi

Public Art Open House in Adams Morgan

2009-03-28T19:04:00.006-04:00

DC Creates Public Art invites the Adams Morgan Community to an Open House to view three different public art proposals for the plaza at the corner of 18th Street and Columbia Road, NW. We would like the community to participate and share thoughts on the three public art proposals. One will be selected for permanent installation in the plaza.

The meeting is Tuesday, April 21, 2009 from 6pm to 8pm located in the basement of the First Church of Christ Scientist at 1782 Columbia Road, NW.

For more information contact, Deirdre Ehlen at Deirdre.Ehlen@dc.gov or by phone at (202) 724-5613.

Youth Mural Call to Artist: Deadline January 16, 2009

2009-01-13T12:15:00.002-05:00

The deadline is fast approaching for the Department of Youth of Rehabilitation Services Youth Center Mural. Entries must be received by 5:30 pm Friday January 16, 2009.

For more information about the Call and to download an application, visit our website.

Call For Entries: Golden Triangle Bicycle Racks

2009-01-13T12:11:00.000-05:00

Golden Triangle Bid has issued a Call for Entries for Creative Bicycle Rack Designs

The Golden Triangle BID has issued a Call for Entries for creative bicycle rack designs. The winning designs will be fabricated by the Golden Triangle in to bicycle racks placed within its 42 blocks of DC's central business district. Winning entries will receive a $1,500 honorarium plus a complimentary Saturday night stay for two at the luxurious Mayflower Hotel. Entries are due on February 9, 2009. For more information and to download the Call for Entry, please visit http://www.gtbid.com.

DC Creates A Public Art Master Plan

2008-12-23T13:34:00.006-05:00

We are in the midst of creating a strategic plan for DC Creates Public Art. Over the past several months, we've met with artists, curators, DC government agencies and community members to shape our vision for the future. It's an exciting time for the program.

We found this page, created by a fan of DC Creates Public Art. Though the site is old, it's proof that DC Public Art has made an impact far beyond the beltway region. The goal of our Master Plan is to continue this tradition of excellence in art for the District, and to expand the program even further in response to our community.

More on the Master Plan to come as we prepare to present it to the public.

For more information on DC Creates Public Art programs and initiatives, call 202.724.5613.

Community Art in Adams Morgan

2008-12-19T10:28:00.001-05:00

Check out this Washington Post article, published yesterday, about a creative use for the Adams Morgan kiosk at the corner of 18th and Columbia St. NW. This innovative project is a testament to the community's unique take on Public Art.

The kiosk will soon be the site of a new DC Creates Public Art installation. Selected artists and proposals will be announced in early 2009.

DC Creates Public Art

2008-12-18T13:00:00.000-05:00

Wilson Building Tour: City Hall Art Collection

2008-12-17T15:13:00.000-05:00

The next tour of the Wilson Building Art Collection will be Thursday January 29, 2009 at 4:30pm. Join us for the first tour of the New Year, featuring a new focus on individual artists and their stories.

Tour of the City Hall Art Collection HeART of DC

Thursday January 29, 2009

4:30pm

1350 Pennsylvania Ave, NW

Tours meet in the lobby on the Pennsylvania Avenue side and last approximately 60 minutes. For more information please call 202.724.5613.

Call for Artist: Youth Center Mural

2008-12-15T11:46:00.000-05:00

Call for Artist
DC CREATES PUBLIC ART
Department of Youth Rehabilitation Services: Youth Center Mural
Budget: $75,000
Deadline: Friday, January 16, 2009

The DC Commission on the Arts and Humanities (DCCAH) in collaboration with Department of Youth Rehabilitation Services (DYRS) seek an artist or artist team to design, create and install a mural that will be centrally located in the new 60-bed state-of-the-art secured juvenile rehabilitation facility located in Laurel, Maryland (the Youth Center). The goal of this project is to help enliven and reinforce a sense of place within this facility and encourage the youth in positive behavior through design and creation of this large colorful mural. The selected artist(s) will be required to engage youth in the project.

For more information and to download an application, please visit Public Art--Current Call for Entries or call 202.734.5613.

Spotlight on Local Artists: Margaret Boozer’s Accumulation at Project 4

2008-12-12T16:13:00.000-05:00

Spotlight on Local Artists is an occasional feature on artists who have worked with DC Creates Public Art. This week we feature Margaret Boozer, part of the Wilson Building Art Collection, an exhibition of local DC artists curated by the DC Commission on the Arts and Humanities. This past summer we interviewed Margaret Boozer for the first time. This entry continues that discussion with her latest work.

Last night we visited the opening of Accumulation by artist Margaret Boozer at Project 4 Gallery. We spoke to Boozer to learn about her creative process and this new exhibition.

Boozer is internationally renowned for her sculptural works, whose materials hail from the very earth we trample on (or avoid) every day. Influenced by her environment, she uses local materials found near her studio, specifically rich red clay from Mount Rainier. Boozer kiln fires these clay pieces, working with existing textures and colors, often enhancing their natural beauty.

Combining the pieces in sprawling or geometric forms, Boozer assembles her work on the bottom floor of her home and snaps aerial photos to serve as templates. She and her team of assistants then assemble the pieces into a finished work by projecting these templates onto a wall. Boozer says although the template provides a guide, a significant portion of each work is created fresh during the fabrication process. When the piece is de-installed, individual parts can be combined into a totally new work, rendering her creations both temporary and permanent. Boozer named her exhibition Accumulation because it represents her years collecting pieces of the earth. Some objects have been manipulated, others she displays as she found them.

With “an eye for painting and a mind for experimentation,” her work is “unexpectedly recognizable as a variety of subject matter that crosses genres between representation and abstraction, painting and sculpture.” (Project 4) Boozer likes the detail and expanse of her projects, noting that her pieces are equally striking in full and in close view (see photos below). As she continues to play with shape, color and texture, Boozer’s creations become increasingly satisfying in their rich complexity.

Photos by Kendra Anderson

For more information on Margaret Boozer and Red Dirt Studio, visit http://www.margaretboozer.com.

To see Accumulation visit the gallery at 1353 U St NW, 3rd floor, or log onto http://www.project4gallery.com/

For more about DC Creates Public Art Artists, call 202.724.5613.

LeDroit Park Mural Dedication this Saturday

2008-12-09T15:07:00.000-05:00

WHO: The DC Commission on the Arts and Humanities and The LeDroit Park Community
WHAT: LeDroit Park Community Mural Dedication
WHERE: 239 Elm Street, NW next to the Gage-Eckington Elementary School
WHEN: December 13^th, 2008 from 11:00am – 2:00pm (Rain or Shine)
WHY: To celebrate the completion of a beautiful community mural!

The DC Commission on the Arts and Humanities in collaboration with residents from the LeDroit Park community selected muralist Garin Baker to design, create and install this mural in the center of the neighborhood. LeDroit Park is a small neighborhood filled with unique architectural characteristics and historical significance to Washington D.C. The LeDroit Park community, although small in number and size has an extraordinary amount of pride and spirit. The mural ties in the historical context of the neighborhood while enforcing a positive message; the mural is aptly entitled “This is How We Live”. Mr. Baker worked closely with the community in the development of the mural and will be leading an arts workshop immediately after the dedication. “I love the results of this mural”, says Gloria Nauden, Executive Director of the D.C. Commission on the Arts and Humanities. I really feel it captures all the elements of what makes LeDroit Park unique.”

According to Mayor Adrian M. Fenty: “This initiative will visually engage residents through a beautiful neighborhood mural that depicts the unique landscapes, people and images of the historic LeDroit Park community. The mural will become a prominent landmark in the neighborhood for years to come. Long time D.C. resident Dana Bryson says “The mural is the result of a community effort and it celebrates the beautiful people and history of LeDroit Park. “This celebratory mural marks the beginning of a renaissance that is taking place at the site of the former Gage-Eckington School, which will soon have a green-civic plaza, a community garden and new play garden for the children and a senior community center."

CONTACT: Mas Tadesse, PR | masresha.tadesse@dc.gov

Gloria Nauden, Executive Director | gloria.nauden@dc.gov

Reminder! Current Call for Entries for Public Artists

2008-11-17T13:35:00.000-05:00

Deadline: November 21, 2008 at 5:30pm
Budget: $200,000

The DC Commission on the Arts and Humanities (DCCAH), in collaboration with the Department of Transportation (DDOT) and the Adams Morgan community, seek an artist or artist team to design, create and install a permanent outdoor installation at the corner of 18th Street and Columbia Road, NW, Washington D.C. The objective of this project is to create a distinctive art piece that communicates the history and current character of the surrounding community and commercial district. The work will reflect the cultural diversity of the neighborhood and enhance the pedestrian experience.

For more information, and to obtain a copy of the prospectus and application, please visit our website or contact Deirdre Ehlen at (202) 724-5613.

DC Creates Public Art, Creates Community Too

2008-11-05T15:33:00.000-05:00

The NoMA Business Improvement District (NoMA BID) was recently awarded a PABC grant from DC Creates Public Art. Check out this article in the Washington Business Journal.

The recently created Public Art Building Communities (PABC) grant offers funds to create and install permanent public art projects. It is an opportunity for artists to realize a unique vision with support from DC Creates Public Art. While not the only grant offered by the DC Commission on the Arts and Humanities (DCCAH), it is the only grant related specifically to Public Art.

The goal of the PABC grant is to foster and deepen a relationship between artists and their communities, and to encourage an innovative approach to public art. Grants are awarded once per year.

For more information about the PABC grant and for questions regarding application, please contact Rachel Dickerson at 202.724.5613 or rachel.dickerson@dc.gov.

Lamond Dedication: Beautiful Art for a Green Building

2008-10-24T15:05:00.000-04:00

Yesterday's Mosaic Mural Dedication at Lamond Recreation Center was a great success. The DC Commission on the Arts and Humanities (DCCAH) and the Department of Parks and Recreation (DPR) were both in attendance to welcome the mural to the Lamond community.
The mural was created using over 70,000 tiles and 60% recycled materials--this complements Lamond Recreation Center's Silver LEED Certification.

Students from nearby Roots Activity Learning Center gave a great vocal and dance performance. Artist Byron Peck and his team from City Arts were there to celebrate their hard work. Residents of Lamond gathered outside to see the mural and participate in the ribbon cutting.

Thanks to all who who participated and attended!

Photos by Shyree Mezick

Lamond Recreation Center Mural Dedication--Tomorrow!

2008-10-22T09:16:00.001-04:00

See you tomorrow, Thursday October 23, at the Lamond Recreation Center as we dedicate Byron Peck's new mosaic mural.

The ceremony will feature remarks by the artist as well as a dance/vocal performance by a youth group from nearby Roots Activity Learning Center. Ward 4 Councilmember Muriel Bowser will also participate.

Details:
Lamond Recreation Center Mural Dedication
Date: Thursday, October 23
Time: 4pm
Location: Lamond Recreation Center, 20 Tuckerman St, NE Washington, DC 20011

For more information, please email Kendra.Anderson@dc.gov

Announcing: Call to Artists, Adams Morgan

2008-10-17T10:54:00.001-04:00

Calling All Artists

The DC Commission on the Arts and Humanities (DCCAH), in collaboration with the Department of Transportation (DDOT) and the Adams Morgan community, seek an artist or artist team to design, create and install a permanent outdoor installation at the corner of 18th Street and Columbia Road, NW, Washington, DC.

This competition is open to professional local and national artists with site-specific and/or public art experience.

To obtain a copy of the prospectus and application, please visit The DC Commission on the Arts and Humanities: Art in Public Places - Current Call for Entries or call 202.724.5613.

Interested in the city's art collection?

2008-10-14T15:46:00.000-04:00

If you attended our recent ceremony honoring the expanded art collection in the Wilson Building, you have just a taste of the breadth of this body of work. Did you know you can learn more by attending a free tour of the building's art?

Join us tomorrow, Wednesday October 15, for an in depth look at the collection's highlights. Tours last approximately 30 minutes and feature discussion and interpretation of the art works. Tour times are 10:30 am and 11:00 am and begin at the receptionist's desk on the first floor.

Wilson Building art tours are offered once a season. If you can't attend one this fall, look for an announcement of the winter tour series.

For more information please call 202.724.5613.

Join us...

2008-10-14T15:17:00.000-04:00

We invite you to join us next Thursday to dedicate the new mosaic mural at Lamond Recreation Center. This work represents a collaboration between the Commission on the Arts and Humanities and the Department of Parks and Recreation. Artist Byron Peck of City Arts created this beautiful mural to reflect the character of the Rec Center and its neighborhood.

The Lamond Recreation Center is the first LEED® Silver Certified building in the District and features a host of after school programs and activities for students from surrounding schools.

Visit the DCCAH website to view the press release and stop by the Rec Center to see the mural in person.

Date: Thursday October 23
Time: 4 pm
Location: Lamond Recreation Center, 20 Tuckerman Street, NE

Questions and more information:
202.274.5613
kendra.anderson@dc.gov

Frederick Douglass in Judiciary Square

2008-10-06T10:59:00.000-04:00

DC Creates Public Art's Rachel Dickerson was recently interviewed for the Washington Post Metro Section. She spoke about the second of two impressive statue installations in Judiciary Square, 441 4th Street, NW. The statue of Frederick Douglass, created by sculptor Steven Weitzman, was put in place this past weekend. It comes after the installation two weeks ago of the Pierre L'Enfant statue, created by sculptor Gordon Kray.

You can visit the Washington Post article here, and make sure to visit the statues at 441 4th St. NW.

Join us for the Wilson Building's City Hall Art Collection Reception, September 23

2008-09-02T12:25:00.000-04:00

Map of Public Art Locations in the District of Columbia

2008-09-02T10:19:00.001-04:00

View Larger Map

LeDroit Park Community Mural: This Is How We Live

2008-08-18T14:35:00.000-04:00

This past Saturday the residents of LeDroit Park held their annual block party. It was the perfect afternoon: the weather was warm, and a light breeze wafted the smell of barbequing food through the air. A live DJ spun continuous dance tunes and kids played basketball and football in the street. Adults and children alike relaxed on this warm summer afternoon, keeping cool in the heat of August.

Recently Dana Bryson, a LeDroit community resident, approached DC Public Art to find a muralist to paint an exterior wall of her building at 239 Elm St NW. The DC Commission on the Arts and Humanities, in collaboration with residents from the LeDroit Park community selected muralist Garin Baker to design, create and install this mural. With its central location, the mural promises to add even more to the already vibrant community. It will face the site of the former Gage Eckington Elementary School, a DCPS that was closed at the end of last school year.

At the block party Mr. Baker set up a station to display a model of his mural. He spoke with community residents about his project and encouraged children to design their own murals at the arts and crafts table. Mr. Baker’s mural concept ties in the historical context of the neighborhood while enforcing a positive message entitled, “This Is How We Live.” He will engage the community in a series of workshops to gather visual concepts and ideas that will enhance the final composition. The mural will generate and reinforce a sense of place as well as create partnership and unity amongst residents.

Mr. Baker was born and raised in New York City and received his BFA from Pratt Institute in addition to traditional studies at The Art Students League. Presently he runs a small public art company called Carriage House Arts Studios, responsible for countless public and private large scale Murals projects across the country. Mr. Baker recently completed two murals located at Turkey Thicket Recreation Center in Northeast Washington, DC.

For more information please contact Rachel Dickerson, DC Creates Public Art Manager, at 202.724.5613 or email her at Rachel.Dickerson@dc.gov.

City Hall Art Collection Expands

2008-07-28T16:16:00.000-04:00

The District of Columbia City Hall Art Collection celebrates the addition of 28 works by 17 artists new to the collection purchased through the DC Commission on the Arts and Humanities, DC Creates Public Art Program. This brings the total works in the Collection to 203 by 117 artists. Artists from all eight wards are represented and at least 25 artists are District of Columbia natives.

Mayor Adrian M. Fenty said, “I am pleased that we have been able to add more artwork to this deep and rich collection of local art.” He added, “Artists in the District of Columbia are as creative and talented as those in New York, Paris and Los Angeles. This collection reflects the vitality and strength of our local arts community. I encourage you to bring your family, your neighbors, your colleagues, and your visitors to experience this extraordinary permanent exhibition in our nation’s capital.”

“2008 marks the centennial of the John A. Wilson Building,” adds Vincent C. Gray, Council chairman. “And this reception for the artists whose work we enjoy every day is just the start of a multiyear celebration of the important cultural legacy that is intertwined with the building's history. We invite all District residents and visitors to join us in celebrating our great heritage.”

Since 1968, the DC Arts Commission has developed and promoted local artists, organizations, and activities as part of its mission to enrich the quality of life for the residents in Washington. The City Hall Art Collection fulfills an important goal to support local visual artists and to bring art to the workplace. Enjoying artwork should not be limited to the traditional context of galleries and museums.

Newly added works by: Wayne Edson Bryan, Lilian Thomas Burwell, Manon Cleary, Gene Davis, Willem De Looper, Aziza Claudia Gibson-Hunter, Janis Goodman, Kevin Kepple, Kevin MacDonald, Percy Martin, Paul Reed, Robin Rose, Molly Springfield, Di Bagley Stovall, Lou Stovall, Alma Woodsey Thomas, Dan Treado, Andrea Way, and James Lesesne Wells

The collection is open to the public, free of charge to view, Monday through Friday from 9 am to 5 pm.

John A. Wilson Building, 1350 Pennsylvania Avenue, NW, Washington, DC 20004. On-street metered parking is limited. Visitors are encouraged to use Metro (closest stations are Federal Triangle or Metro Center).

Contact: Rachel.Dickerson@dc.gov, (202) 724-5613

Spotlight on Local Artists: Margaret Boozer

2008-07-21T15:32:00.001-04:00

Upon meeting Margaret Boozer, you have to notice that she is surprisingly clean. Not exceptionally clean for an ordinary person, just cleaner than you would expect a woman who gleefully digs through the earth to be.

Boozer is internationally renowned for her magnificent sculptural works whose material hails from the very earth we trample on (or avoid) on a daily basis. Scouring construction sites, the areas around her studio in Mt. Ranier, Maryland, or really any place where beautiful purple, red,

grey, brown, or orange clay might be found, the gorgeously, rich earth that she excavates is later transformed, with the guidance of her hands, into stunning sculptures of various forms.

In a time when we are constantly questioning our relationship and affect on the planet, Boozer simply allows the inherent beauty of the physical earth to take center stage without judgment or self-deprecation. One cannot help but wonder, when looking closely at pieces like Dichotomy of Dirt (see image above), where the beauty of this clay, soil, and earth came from. In this wonderment, it is a startling realization to acknowledge that such beauty has always existed. We just haven’t been looking for it.

Of course, it is Boozer’s impeccable skill and technique that allow her to recognize and exalt the beauty of the dried or fired earth that she works with. In her art, there appears a glorious combination of the artist’s intent and the material’s own agenda, or, to use Boozer’s own words “control” and “chaos.” Boozer will begin a crack in the clay, but then allow the clay’s natural drying process to take over and complete its journey across the slab.

Whether in the colorful, intricate clay disks of Dichotomy of Dirt, the contemplative, delicate cracks of Winter Landscape, or the self-contained dirt drawing so beautiful that even the most diligent janitor would refuse to sweep it up, the beauty of the earth and the ground that we walk on, plant in, dig up, is exalted with sincere respect and admiration on the part of this artist.

Margaret Boozer’s work, Winter Landscape, can be viewed at the Wilson Building’s permanent City Hall Collection entitled “HeArt of DC,” located at 1350 Pennsylvania Avenue, NW. The Luce Center of the Smithsonian American Art Museum currently has her work Eight Red Bowls on display. Soon, Grapeseed Bistro in Bethesda will house her largest wall sculpture to date. Boozer is also collaborating with designer Darryl Carter to create custom steel and concrete shelving for private residences. A solo exhibition of her work will open at the Project 4 gallery in December.

For more information on Margaret Boozer and Red Dirt Studio, where she directs a seminar on sculpture and ceramics, visit http://www.margaretboozer.com.

Neighborhood Seeks Truce in Mural Dispute

2008-07-14T09:42:00.000-04:00

NW Residents Call for Positive Artwork After Removal of Controversial Painting

By Derek Kravitz, Washington Post Staff Writer, Sunday, July 13, 2008; Page C04

Standing in front of a giant Afrocentric mural, D.C. council member Jim Graham spoke about Ward 1'slong-standing problems with graffiti, noting the images of Malcolm X and African freedom fighters behind him as an example of artwork done right.

"We want to advance art, like this mural, not the messages of hate or gang affiliation," said Graham (D-Ward 1).

But the militant theme of the artwork on the brick wall of Sankofa Books on Georgia Avenue NW, which depicts Malcolm X with a gun, highlights an often bitter fight among residents in the area. Yesterday, a city-funded program designed to cover graffiti with murals by teenagers was begun, and residents and city officials hope it will quell debate while beautifying the area.

Three summers ago, students from nearby Howard University painted a mural featuring local residents and black leaders, including D.C. Council member and former mayor Marion Barry, on a 10-foot-tall retaining wall on Fairmont Street NW, near Georgia Avenue.

Some neighbors complained that it was an eyesore, others wanted less political imagery, and Howard officials said the students did not have permission to paint the images. City workers soon covered the mural with white paint.

A few months later, in response to that mural's removal, Sankofa Books owner Haile Gerima commissioned the mural on the brick wall of his store in the 2700 block of Georgia Avenue, a few hundred feet from the former one. "We wanted to have a piece of black history," said Gerima, who is originally from Ethiopia.

The retaining wall on Fairmont remained a blank canvas.

Enter the Midnight Forum, a hip-hop-influenced youth group that specializes in the arts in the District. The group met with residents, who wanted a mural to reflect the community's musical heritage. Duke Ellington, Melba Moore and Marvin Gaye all once called the area home.

"When we talked to people, they wanted to show the history of the area," said Dominic Painter, the forum's director. "And once we showed them what we wanted to do, they were all for it."
After a year-long pilot program, the $100,000, city-funded MuralsDC project celebrated its official start as six teenagers created the first designs at Georgia and Fairmont. Over the coming year, 12 murals will be commissioned across the city to cover graffiti.

"I used to tag some places, like my garage, but nothing like this," said Raphael Jones, 16, a sophomore atBell Multicultural High in Northwest. Yesterday, the aspiring graphic designer spent hours painting the wall white. "This is much better."

Two portions of the 50-foot-long brick wall will feature images of a trumpet player, a girl playing a guitar and a diploma-clutching graduate. The artists will use a type of oil paint that repels the spray paint typically used by taggers. William O. Howland Jr., director of the city's Department of Public Works, said the program gives teens an outlet to paint.

"This is a great way to get people truly interested in art doing something productive," Howland said.

The D.C. Commission on the Arts and Humanities has approved designs for six locations, including at commercial sites in the 400 block of Florida Avenue NW, the 3900 block of 14th Street NW, the 1300 block of U Street NW and on a wall in the 1400 block of Meridian Place NW.

Gerima, in his Georgia Avenue bookstore, said he thought that the mural of musicians was a good idea.

"This is positive," he said. "I would've been out there protesting if it wasn't."

Spotlight on Local Artists: Billy Colbert

2008-07-03T13:15:00.000-04:00

Billy Colbert is a mixed media artist who lives and works in Washington, D.C. His artwork is recognizable for the dynamic, complex layering of imagery that has been screen printed on aluminum and painted over to created even more depth. Colbert has incorporated photographs of family members, criminal mug shots from the early 1900s, and popular advertising icons into reverberant and compelling pieces that have been exhibited throughout the United States. He is also designing a clothing label, Policy, set to debut on July 31st.

In his work, Colbert asks us to recognize that we are constantly prodded to think a certain way, buy a certain product, and invest in an uncertain sense of entitlement that results from living in a society obsessed with and reliant upon the industry of manufacturing perfection. But to Colbert, beauty is found in the eschewed shirt collar, in the eyes of convicts that pierce through what is probably the only portrait taken of them in their lifetime, and in the sheer delight of watching the world’s layers haphazardly unfold. "I see myself as a DJ, grabbing records from all over and making sounds that are visual, reconnecting stories into a loose vision."

Colbert sees beauty in the instant moment, an untamed, essential exterior. In that moment, looking beyond the alienating fortresses that construct our persona, he recognizes a universal interconnectedness. To see what he sees, we have to rediscover the soul so diligently buried under the superficial, technological, and defensive silt that has cloaked what bonds us all: our absolute, soulful humanity.

Billy Colbert’s work is currently on display at the John A. Wilson Building in downtown D.C. He has two solo exhibitions opening soon: one at the Smith Farm Center for Healing on U St. opening on July 11th and another at Mason Murer Fine Art in Atlanta opening on August 8th. A happy hour launch party for Policy is taking place on July 31st from 5-9pm.

For more information, visit http://www.blogger.com/www.billycolbert.com and http://www.policybrand.com/

Check out these links for short films on Billy Colbert:
http://video.aol.com/video-detail/billy-colbert-mug-shots/102225259
http://video.aol.com/video-detail/billy-colbert-corporate-merger/1124669484

Emerge in action!

2008-04-22T17:07:00.000-04:00

One of our Emerge artists- Alberto Roblest- filmed a short movie on the Art Walk experience using his cellphone to send to his mother and sister so they could get a taste of it. His friend
Audioconfigurado supplied the soundtrack.

If you make a short movie about Art Walk, feel free to share it with us! Maybe we'll post yours too!

Emerge

2008-04-18T15:07:00.003-04:00

ART WALK

The DC Commission on the Arts and Humanities, in cooperation with the Washington Convention Center, have commissioned twelve local artists to participate in the third thought provoking, large-scale outdoor exhibition. Each of these diverse artworks is linked by a common theme – Emerge. The theme for the first exhibition was entitled Metamorphosis and the theme for the second exhibition was entitled Drift. The Art Walk exhibition will display artworks by artists of different disciplines until new construction at this site begins.

BEGINNINGS

Tony Brunswick
digital photograph
2007

I chose my piece "Beginnings" because I felt it reflected a sense of hope and excitement that I find in the word "Emerge." One might not guess that eventually the hot orange glass in my image would eventually become a beautiful green vase, but it is does. It's just not quite green or vase-like yet. It had to go through the fire and through the forming first. There is a certain amount of faith in the process of emerging, of becoming, that I find inspiring (if not a little terrifying at times). It's believing in something not yet entirely visible. And the "believing in" quality, I think, is the very thing that determines the extent to which something, or someone, emerges. The glassblower could have stopped here, at this orange and hot point in the process, but she didn't. And to her own surprise, an amazing green vase emerged.

OPPOSING FORCES

Thomas Bucci
digital drawing
2007

The 4-panel image is 4 variations on the theme of opposing forces and how the emerge in the formation of societies and cultural values. The individual titles are: Haves and Have Nots, A Smoking Controversy, Detente and One for All and All for One.

HELLTOWN 2007

Michael Crossett
photography and digital collage
2007

Even as an adult, I love to watch the draggers as they emerge on the horizon and make their way into Provincetown harbor.

NASCENT FLIGHT

Michele de la Menardiere
screen printing and digital media
2007

Nascent Flight -- created using screen-printing and digital media -- is a musing on the opening of human spirit to universal consciousness. The birds symbolize merging into a larger reality while the Indian symbols refer to Gayatri, the goddess of awakening. The piece is a deep exploration and meditation on the sublime.

WE ARE HERE AND WE ARE MOVING

Kristen L. Hayes
oil and pastel collage on paper
2007

The work speaks to gentrification, particularly that of Washington, D.C., and how some of us have decided to resist. But resistance does not mean that one must be still and stagnant. You are continually moving towards mental, emotional, physical and spiritual growth-with such a courageous decision.

EMERGE

Kate Kaman & Joel Erland
digital file
2006

Awed by the scale of the DC Artwalk 2008 project, Kate Kaman & Joel Erland decided to experiment. Somewhat of a departure from their previous work, EMERGE is reflection on some of their favorite virtues in contemporary culture: self-awareness, innocent irreverence, and mirth. The viewer intuitively sees the groundhog and his insect friends as protagonists - not mere animals. The message is post-ironic: I emerge, therefore I exist. The artists asked themselves, “Is it wise to make an artwork that deals with emergence and existence? And if so, what if that artwork made you smile?”

THE OUTER OF THE INNER

Alberto Roblest
digital image
2007

The Outer of the Inner is a reflection on the diversity, multiculturalism, and many languages of Washington, DC. And how, despite our apparent differences, the DNA of each man and woman intimately connects us with each other and our ancestors reaching all the way back to the beginning.

El Afuera del Adentro, es una reflexión en torno a la diversidad racial, el multiculturalismo y la polisemia de una ciudad como DC. Esto es, que a pesar de las diferencias aparentes, detrás de cada hombre y de cada mujer, estamos todos en una intima conexión que nos une unos a otros con el principio.

MANY WATERS

Kyungmi Shin
photo and painting collage
2007

In Many Waters, I combined photographic and graphic and painterly elements to express movements in nature and culture. The juxtaposition of photographic and man-made elements allude to the relationship between culture and nature as well as the growth and changes that occur in both as time passes.

PARALLEL LINES
from the series, MY GEOMETRY

Bo Simeon
digital file
2008

H. Hastings once said, “Piet Mondrian’s geometric forms and Jackson Pollack’s random patterns both capture important parts of nature. Can an appropriate geometry combine the complexity of Pollack’s patterns with the simplicity of Mondrian’s descriptions?” I believe that my work is a clear answer to the question above. It provides a bridge between the excessive geometric order of Euclid and the chaos of intuitive gesture.

THE MEMORY OF TOMORROW

Ira Tattelman & Thomas Drymon
digital photo composition
2007

The Memory of Tomorrow is a photo composition that explores the relationship between the body, light, time and space while suggesting some the feelings and emotions that emerge before, during and after a wedding.

LINEAGE LINES

Ben Volta
with Grover Washington Jr. Middle School
of the Philadelphia School District
digital print
2007

Our collaborative artwork contains drawing fragments from the family heritage of all the participants. These drawing fragments overlap and intertwine to create unexpected relationships with unanticipated meanings. The art draws viewers into the connections that we have made from within our group’s diverse cultural background. Our hope is that through our art we might kindle the same kind of creative connections on a social level, contrary to forces that might separate us in an increasingly diverse society.
LIVING DRAWING: EMERGE

Anita Walsh
rubber, birch, brass on plywood
2006

My work celebrates simple rituals that we do every day: scrubbing the floor, noticing a rubber band snap, buying potatoes. An inner dialogue begins between our voices of utility and possibility. In a single moment, ordinary objects become tools for self-reflection and mindfulness. Visitors to my work witness the natural cycle of evolution while participating in redefining the meaning of an object in a moment of time.

Free Tour of the Wilson Building

2008-01-25T12:36:00.000-05:00

At 12 p.m. on Wednesday January 30, the public is invited to the Wilson Building for a guided tour through the City Hall public collection of art on permanent display on floors 1-5 of the Wilson building. The tour will be led by a local artist featured in the
collection- Ellyn Weiss.
The City Hall Collection, "HeArt of the City", has been assembled over the past two years under the sponsorship of the DC Commission on the Arts and Humanities. It is the richest and largest permanent exhibition of the work of local artists in the city, featuring a broad range of work, from internationally known artists such as Jacob Kainen, Sam Gilliam and William Christenberry, to work by most of the artists of significance working in our area now. All styles and media are included. The collection truly provides a window into the scope of creative talent and energy that DC offers today.
This is a unique chance to enjoy the collection along with one of the artists and to share your responses. This will be a bi-monthly occurrence.
The tour is free; however space is limited. Please RSVP to beth.baldwin@dc.gov with the number in your party. Meet at the receptionist's desk on the first floor near the Pennsylvania Avenue entrance - the building is located at 1350 Pennsylvania Ave NW. ID is required to enter the building.

SW Call Box Project

2007-12-04T14:41:00.000-05:00

The Washington DC Southwest Neighborhood Assembly History Task Force Call Box Committee, in collaboration with Cultural Tourism DC, seeks artists to participate in Art on Call. This public arts project is a city-wide effort led by Cultural Tourism DC in partnership with the DC Commission on the Arts and Humanities and the District Department of Transportation to restore Washington, DC's historic abandoned police and fire Call Boxes as neighborhood artistic icons.

Art on Call challenges artists to use existing police or fire Call Boxes as frames for the artist's unique and creative image or design that can be permanently installed within the call box.

Deadline: January 11th at midnight.

For more information regarding this opportunity and for a copy of the prospectus please email swcallboxproject@gmail.com.

PUBLIC ART BUILDING COMMUNITIES GRANT (PABC)

2007-11-28T15:39:00.000-05:00

Deadline: Wednesday, January 30, 2008 at 7 pm

Application Workshops:
Friday, December 7, 2007 at noon
Monday, January 7, 2008 at 6pm

The Public Art Building Communities grant program offers funds to eligible artists and nonprofit organizations for the creation and installation of permanent public art projects with a life span of at least five (5) years. Projects must be installed in the District of Columbia and should encourage the growth of quality public art throughout the city, support local artists and nonprofit organizations, and make public art accessible to District residents. Projects must provide exposure of public art to the broader community or to persons traditionally underserved or separated from the cultural mainstream due to geographic location, economic constraints, or disability. Eligible, projects include, but are not limited to: sculpture, mosaics, murals, paving patterns, custom benches, stained glass windows, artistic gates and railing, etc.

Funding is available for all fees associated with the design, fabrication and installation of the artwork(s) including: artist fees, materials, insurance, engineering, shipping, installation services, permit fees, and photographic documentation.

The Commission hosts a series of workshops to assist individuals and organizations in preparing applications and strongly encourages that all applicants attend a workshop prior to submitting a proposal. No prior reservations are required to attend workshops.

Workshops will be held at 1371 Harvard Ave., NW; Washington DC 20009

Download the application at: DCCAH Call To Artist . For further questions email Deirdre Ehlen at Deirdre.Ehlen@dc.gov or call (202) 724-5613

2008 EMERGE ArtWalk

2007-11-28T15:35:00.000-05:00

Deadline: Monday, December 17, 2007 at 5:30 pm

The DC Commission on the Arts and Humanities is seeking 12 artists to take part in a thought provoking large-scale outdoor exhibit entitled Emerge, the third and final phase of the ArtWalk exhibition. Through artist interpretation of Emerge, the premise and goal of the exhibition is to present 12 diverse artworks with a common theme that will draw the attention of both Washington, DC residents and visitors. ArtWalk is a project of the DC Commission on the Arts and Humanities' downtown public art initiative, in cooperation with the Washington Convention Center. The ArtWalk features 12 display units each stretching 6 feet tall by 24 feet wide.

Open to local, national and international artists with preference given to individuals residing or working in the District of Columbia. Selected artist will receive $2,500.

The ArtWalk is located between New York Avenue and H Streets, NW at a pedestrian friendly parking facility that was once the site of the Washington DC Convention Center.

Download the application at: DCCAH Call To Artist . For further questions email Deirdre Ehlen at Deirdre.Ehlen@dc.gov or call (202) 724-5613.

ARTISTIC LICENSE

2007-11-28T13:48:00.000-05:00

Deadline: Monday, December 17, 2007 at 5:30 pm

The DC Commission on the Arts and Humanities in collaboration with the District of Columbia, Department of Driver and Motor Vehicles is seeking an artist or artist team to design a specialty arts vanity license plate for the District of Columbia. The theme for the license plate is "Artistic License." The design should inspire residents and visitors to support the arts and help bring attention to the DC Commission on the Arts and Humanities.

This call is open to artists who live in District of Columbia. The selected artist will receive $5000.

Download the application at: DCCAH Call To Artist . For further questions email Deirdre Ehlen at Deirdre.Ehlen@dc.gov or call (202) 724-5613.

Wilson Building Tour

2007-11-27T15:08:00.000-05:00

On Wednesday, November 28th at 12 noon, the public is invited to the John A. Wilson Building for a guided tour of the City Hall Art Collection on permanent display in public corridors throughout the building.

In October of 2006, DCCAH proudly installed almost 200 works from 100 DC area artists for for the inaugural phase of the new City Hall Art Collection at the John A. Wilson Building.

The tour will be led by the talented Denee Barr, a Washington DC native, whose work is included in the collection. This is a unique chance to meet with local artists featured in the collection and have a discussion on being an artist in the Nation's capital and to see a rich cross section of local artists (both established and emerging). Tours will be offered bi-monthly.

The tour is free; however space is limited. Please RSVP to beth.baldwin@dc.gov with the number in your party. Meet at the Pennsylvania Avenue entrance — the building is located at 1350 Pennsylvania Ave NW. Picture ID is required to enter the building.

Welcome!

2007-11-26T13:03:00.001-05:00

This is a blog for public art happenings within the office of the DC Commission on the Arts and Humanities.

Here you will find calls for artists, as well as photos of our installations along the way.