In 2013, the Yakima Arts Commission, an advisory group appointed by the Yakima City Council, developed an idea to harness the creativity of Central Washington artists to help invigorate windows of empty downtown storefronts by displaying their work as part of a new project called, “Windows Alive!”. Based on similar projects that have proven successful in other cities, Windows Alive! is part of an ongoing effort to bring new life and activity to Downtown Yakima.
Following a submission and evaluation process that took place earlier this summer, outstanding artists from the region were chosen to be part of the fall/winter 2015 “Windows Alive!” exhibition, which will run from October 2nd through January 29th. The exhibits will go on display at 5:30 PM on October 2nd as part of First Friday activities.
“Empty windows in unoccupied storefronts send a message that isn’t very positive,” said Yakima Economic Development Manager Sean Hawkins. “The idea behind Windows Alive! is to fill those storefront windows with beautiful art and create a more engaging and vibrant environment downtown. The project also gives local artists a wonderful opportunity to showcase their work,” said Hawkins.
The artists who were chosen for the latest Windows Alive! exhibition are Thomas Blaylock of Yakima (oil painting), Sandy Forman of Yakima (quilted glass), LuCinda Kimes of Selah (acrylic, oil & charcoal), Mary Portteus of Yakima (mixed media), Jahla Brown of Olympia (screen print), and members of the Heritage University Fine Arts Club from Toppenish. Each artist or organization will receive a $250 stipend.
In addition to the contributions made to the project by the Yakima Arts Commission, support has also been provided by the City of Yakima, JEM Development, Inc., Action Window Cleaning and David Lynx.
Additional information is available at www.windowsalive.com
Windows Alive Project – News Release