The Yakima Arts Commission, an advisory group appointed by the Yakima City Council, is inviting Central Washington artists to help invigorate windows of empty downtown storefronts by displaying their work as part of a new project called, “Windows Alive”.
Artists living in Yakima County and Kittitas County are being encouraged to submit an application and examples of their work by the July 15th deadline. Submissions can include all types of media, including paintings, drawings, fiber, ceramics, sculpture, etc. A panel chosen by the Yakima Arts Commission will review submissions from artists and select works that will be displayed in storefront windows for four months beginning in late September. Artists who are chosen to show their work in the windows, which are primarily located along Yakima Avenue and on 3rd Street, will be paid $250.
Artists can request an applications by e-mailing Arts Commission Member Laurie Kanyer at lauriekanyer@gmail.com. Questions about the project can be answered by calling Arts Commission Member Noel Moxley at 949-0783.
“Windows Alive” is the brainchild of the Yakima Arts Commission and is based on similar projects that have proven successful in other cities.
“Empty storefront windows don’t convent a positive image,” said Moxely. “By filling them with art, we will create a more engaging and vibrant environment downtown while also providing local artists with a wonderful opportunity to showcase their work.”
A “Windows Alive” grand opening and reception with take place on September 28th. After the first displays complete their four-month run, they will be replaced with a new set of displays that will be up for the next four months. The Arts Commission plans on continuing the project on an ongoing basis.
“’Windows Alive’ is a great way to celebrate the community and to add excitement and energy to Downtown Yakima,” said Moxley. “We are fortunate to have a lot of very gifted artists in Central Washington and ‘Windows Alive’ will provide them with another stage they can use to share their talents.”
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Windows Alive Project – News Release
Contact:
Yakima Arts Commission Member Noel Moxley – 949-0783
Communications & Public Affairs Director Randy Beehler – 901-1142