FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
MAY 25, 2018
Contact: Marissa Lazar [email protected]
Queens Council On The Arts Launches Its First Public Art Project In Jamaica and Jackson Heights
[Queens, New York, May 25] Furthering their commitment to the Queens art community, Queens Council On The Arts will offer 8 Queens based artists the opportunity to create temporary public artworks throughout Jamaica and Jackson Heights.
The new program, ArtSite, will award 8 artists with a commission of $4,500 each to create temporary public art in these communities, ranging anywhere from murals to performances, that illuminate the different ways art can transform a community. A key goal of ArtSite is to empower artists to engage on a local level, understanding that they can be a catalyst for change. QCA, along with its partners, the Jamaica Center BID in Jamaica and the 82nd street Partnership in Jackson Heights, seek to create a self sustaining supportive art culture in these communities.
“Public Art socially connects the community, and is a reflection of who, and what the community stands for. Bringing Public Art to Downtown Jamaica, will boost the authentic, vibrant and unique district of Downtown Jamaica.” – Valerie Stevens, Director of Business Services, Jamaica Center BID
QCA invites Queens based artists to submit an application through the online portal Submittable.com that highlights the artist’s past work and connection to the area. The review panel will consist of city agency representatives, the partner BIDs, and local arts administrators from Jamaica and Jackson Heights. The work of the commissioned artists will be featured in various sites, such as empty storefronts, store walls, plazas, and parks throughout Jamaica and Jackson Heights. These installations will occur or be exhibited between November 2018 and March 2019.
"Art makes life worth living! That's why I am delighted that these public art installations will soon come to Jackson Heights and Elmhurst. Projects like these financially empower local artists and make our public spaces more inviting and engaging. I thank the Queens Council on the Arts and the 82nd Street Partnership for launching this initiative.” - NYC Council Member Daniel Dromm
Artist application deadline: June 20
“Art can be a powerful force. It can inspire its viewers, promote self-examination and catharsis or it can shine a spotlight on a community, it’s mores, achievements and shortcomings. In places like New York City, frenetic and bustling, art installations don’t just provide something that’s visually pleasant but offer a momentary reprieve from the daily grind.” - Council Member Francisco Moya
For more information visit the QCA website, www.queenscouncilarts.org/artsite, or contact
Marissa Lazar, the Public Art Coordinator, [email protected].
