Athens Cultural Affairs http://www.athensculturalaffairs.org fostering development and enioyment of performing, visual, cultural and other arts Mon, 17 Jun 2013 02:22:12 +0000 en-US hourly 1 Grand Opening Celebration of the Rocksprings Pool & Art Installation by Harold Rittenberry http://www.athensculturalaffairs.org/grand-opening-celebration-of-the-rocksprings-pool-art-installation-by-harold-rittenberry/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=grand-opening-celebration-of-the-rocksprings-pool-art-installation-by-harold-rittenberry http://www.athensculturalaffairs.org/grand-opening-celebration-of-the-rocksprings-pool-art-installation-by-harold-rittenberry/#comments Tue, 11 Jun 2013 11:25:38 +0000 athensculturalaffairs http://www.athensculturalaffairs.org/?p=524 RP0

Athens Cultural Affairs Commission launched a Pool Party to celebrate the unveiling of the public art project by Harold Rittenberry and the new Rocksprings Community Pool. Located at 291 Henderson Extension, the new pool is funded by SPLOST, and features a splashpad and shade structures, offering summer fun for the entire Athens community. Renowned local folk artist, accomplished public artist, and lifelong resident of Rocksprings, Harold Rittenberry installed a hand-wrought steel bench and cut-out mural panel featuring an array of aquatic creatures, chosen by neighborhood stakeholders from several proposals. Rittenberry’s artwork included input from Clarke Middle School students who also reside in the neighborhood. Friday’s celebration began with a ribbon-cutting and unveiling of the art. In addition to wet and wild fun in the pool and splashpad, the party featured Dr. Arvin Scott and Drumming for Success. Children of all ages took part in an art project to transform discarded plastic bottles into exotic fish and jellyfish. ACC Recycling and Athens Land Trust were also on hand with information on environmental awareness and Rocksprings community activities.]]> RP0

Athens Cultural Affairs Commission launched a Pool Party to celebrate the unveiling of the public art project by Harold Rittenberry and the new Rocksprings Community Pool. Located at 291 Henderson Extension, the new pool is funded by SPLOST, and features a splashpad and shade structures, offering summer fun for the entire Athens community. Renowned local folk artist, accomplished public artist, and lifelong resident of Rocksprings, Harold Rittenberry installed a hand-wrought steel bench and cut-out mural panel featuring an array of aquatic creatures, chosen by neighborhood stakeholders from several proposals. Rittenberry’s artwork included input from Clarke Middle School students who also reside in the neighborhood. Friday’s celebration began with a ribbon-cutting and unveiling of the art. In addition to wet and wild fun in the pool and splashpad, the party featured Dr. Arvin Scott and Drumming for Success. Children of all ages took part in an art project to transform discarded plastic bottles into exotic fish and jellyfish. ACC Recycling and Athens Land Trust were also on hand with information on environmental awareness and Rocksprings community activities.]]> http://www.athensculturalaffairs.org/grand-opening-celebration-of-the-rocksprings-pool-art-installation-by-harold-rittenberry/feed/ 0 Arts make Athens great place to visit or to live http://www.athensculturalaffairs.org/arts-make-athens-great-place-to-visit-or-to-live/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=arts-make-athens-great-place-to-visit-or-to-live http://www.athensculturalaffairs.org/arts-make-athens-great-place-to-visit-or-to-live/#comments Mon, 10 Jun 2013 20:20:06 +0000 athensculturalaffairs http://www.athensculturalaffairs.org/?p=508 Classic Center Celebration

This article by Ray Caldwell was initially published on 04/03/13 in the Athens Banner-Herald. In the last several months, I’ve seen the Russian State Ballet, met Willie Nelson, viewed a world-class work of art that spans more than 1,800 square feet, heard great Celtic music, and viewed local art that rivals that of any community in the country. I experienced all of this in Athens. And on Feb. 27, the cultural tide here rose to celebration level, as the community gathered for the grand opening of the expansion of the Classic Center, downtown Athens’ convention and performance space. Hundreds of people admired the new atrium and the “Nest” sculpture suspended from the room’s high ceiling. Speakers, including Georgia Secretary of State Brian Kemp, representatives of the Georgia Department of Economic Development, Athens-Clarke County Mayor Nancy Denson and Classic Center Executive Director Paul Cramer, praised the efforts of all those involved with the work. The evening include a performance of the Boston Pops Orchestra and renowned vocalist Ann Hampton Calloway in the Classic Center Theatre. The celebration marked the end of the sales-tax-funded expansion project at the Classic Center, but it launched the community into even greater cultural opportunities. The expanded Classic Center allows more people to enjoy what we have to offer. A number of new conferences have booked the Classic Center for the next 12 months, and according to Chuck Jones, director of the Athens Convention & Visitors Bureau, “A number of groups, who met here in the past, are coming back. They would not have been able to continue to convene in Athens if the Classic Center had not expanded.” Our newly expanded venue helps create what every town needs — a “sense of place,” which in Athens augments a great community spirit. Both of these things create a desire among visitors to return to Athens. Indeed, there are a large number of reasons for visitors to return here again and again. Sporting events — which are, indeed, a big part of Athens culture — the University of Georgia’s Performing Arts Center, the Town and Gown Players, the county’s Lyndon House Arts Center, the State Botanical Garden and the Georgia Museum of Art are just a few reasons to return. In addition, the vast array of music available every night of the week is a great way for visitors to get a sense of local color. Much has been written about the ways in which art and culture are woven into the local economy. But it’s not just about drawing in dollars from visitors. The thriving arts and cultural scene, and the many venues in which to enjoy them, bring an enhanced quality of life that makes Athens-Clarke County a great place to work and to raise a family. American dancer and choreographer Twyla Tharp said, “Art is the only way to run away without leaving home.” Athens, though, isn’t a place people want to run away from; it’s a place to which people want to run. Take time to celebrate all the good things about Athens. Take time to explore the many different ways that art and culture raise the quality of life here. This is a blessed community, and that is worth celebrating.  ]]> Classic Center Celebration

This article by Ray Caldwell was initially published on 04/03/13 in the Athens Banner-Herald. In the last several months, I’ve seen the Russian State Ballet, met Willie Nelson, viewed a world-class work of art that spans more than 1,800 square feet, heard great Celtic music, and viewed local art that rivals that of any community in the country. I experienced all of this in Athens. And on Feb. 27, the cultural tide here rose to celebration level, as the community gathered for the grand opening of the expansion of the Classic Center, downtown Athens’ convention and performance space. Hundreds of people admired the new atrium and the “Nest” sculpture suspended from the room’s high ceiling. Speakers, including Georgia Secretary of State Brian Kemp, representatives of the Georgia Department of Economic Development, Athens-Clarke County Mayor Nancy Denson and Classic Center Executive Director Paul Cramer, praised the efforts of all those involved with the work. The evening include a performance of the Boston Pops Orchestra and renowned vocalist Ann Hampton Calloway in the Classic Center Theatre. The celebration marked the end of the sales-tax-funded expansion project at the Classic Center, but it launched the community into even greater cultural opportunities. The expanded Classic Center allows more people to enjoy what we have to offer. A number of new conferences have booked the Classic Center for the next 12 months, and according to Chuck Jones, director of the Athens Convention & Visitors Bureau, “A number of groups, who met here in the past, are coming back. They would not have been able to continue to convene in Athens if the Classic Center had not expanded.” Our newly expanded venue helps create what every town needs — a “sense of place,” which in Athens augments a great community spirit. Both of these things create a desire among visitors to return to Athens. Indeed, there are a large number of reasons for visitors to return here again and again. Sporting events — which are, indeed, a big part of Athens culture — the University of Georgia’s Performing Arts Center, the Town and Gown Players, the county’s Lyndon House Arts Center, the State Botanical Garden and the Georgia Museum of Art are just a few reasons to return. In addition, the vast array of music available every night of the week is a great way for visitors to get a sense of local color. Much has been written about the ways in which art and culture are woven into the local economy. But it’s not just about drawing in dollars from visitors. The thriving arts and cultural scene, and the many venues in which to enjoy them, bring an enhanced quality of life that makes Athens-Clarke County a great place to work and to raise a family. American dancer and choreographer Twyla Tharp said, “Art is the only way to run away without leaving home.” Athens, though, isn’t a place people want to run away from; it’s a place to which people want to run. Take time to celebrate all the good things about Athens. Take time to explore the many different ways that art and culture raise the quality of life here. This is a blessed community, and that is worth celebrating.  ]]> http://www.athensculturalaffairs.org/arts-make-athens-great-place-to-visit-or-to-live/feed/ 0 ALERT to all Artists about the Call for art for the Library http://www.athensculturalaffairs.org/alert-to-all-artists-about-the-call-for-art-for-the-library/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=alert-to-all-artists-about-the-call-for-art-for-the-library http://www.athensculturalaffairs.org/alert-to-all-artists-about-the-call-for-art-for-the-library/#comments Wed, 10 Apr 2013 14:45:17 +0000 athensculturalaffairs http://www.athensculturalaffairs.org/?p=472 Alert

ALERT to all Artists about the Call for art for the Library! The Flagpole printed the wrong deadline in the calendar. The deadline was Friday, April 5, 2013.

]]> Alert

ALERT to all Artists about the Call for art for the Library! The Flagpole printed the wrong deadline in the calendar. The deadline was Friday, April 5, 2013.

]]> http://www.athensculturalaffairs.org/alert-to-all-artists-about-the-call-for-art-for-the-library/feed/ 0 Creator of ‘Nest’ talks about Classic Center sculpture http://www.athensculturalaffairs.org/creator-of-nest-talks-about-classic-center-sculpture/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=creator-of-nest-talks-about-classic-center-sculpture http://www.athensculturalaffairs.org/creator-of-nest-talks-about-classic-center-sculpture/#comments Mon, 01 Apr 2013 14:21:48 +0000 athensculturalaffairs http://www.athensculturalaffairs.org/?p=447 nest_atrium_2

This article by Joan C. Curtis was initially published on 03/06/13 in the Athens Banner-Herald. Last month, the Classic Center celebrated the grand opening of its new addition, including the amazing Atrium which contains “Nest,” a sculptural art installation. The Athens Cultural Affairs Commission, representatives of the public and the Athens-Clarke County Commission selected renowned artist Maureen Kelly from St. Louis to create “Nest.” Recently, I had an opportunity to talk with Kelly about how she conceived of that amazing structural work, as well as her interest in public art. When asked to describe the piece, Kelly found it difficult to do so without incorporating the place. “I created the piece with the place and the community in mind. It took shape the instant I saw the space,” she said. Having visited the site before she submitted a proposal, Kelly explained her need to feel the height and volume — essentially, the spirit — of the space. “I could never conceptualize a piece without seeing where it will live,” she said. When she visited the Atrium, Kelly instantly recognized the need to incorporate a sense of history. The Classic Center sits on the site of the Historic Warehouse District, where storehouses for cotton and wool were located during the 19th and early 20th centuries. “When I learned that this used to be an important corridor for the textile industry, stainless steel fabric immediately came to mind,” Kelly said. “It is unique in that it mirrors many of the same qualities as cotton. Furthermore, the stainless steel fabric is completely see-through.” This unique material enabled her to create a piece with historical significance that would enhance rather than overpower the panoramic beauty of the landscape outside. Asked how anyone could conceptualize such a mammoth piece, Kelly said that when she walks into any space, her mind almost instantaneously sees something. “ I've gone full circle with site-specific,” she explained. “I began in ceramics. Once out of school, I changed from small architectural-based sculptural clay to site-specific sculpture of metals and fabrics that are integrated into the architectural intent of these extreme spaces.” She has since evolved further into the realm of space, using all kinds of fabric and design. Her studio, The Design Loft, is a known leader for site-specific fabric and metal structure for extreme and unusual spaces. Her website shows many installations, each more majestic than the next. As far as how to view “Nest,” she said, “I want people to see whatever they see, whatever they want to see. I named it “Nest” because when I gazed upon it, I felt the warmth of a gathering place and the embrace of the outside trees, but everyone will see something different.” She told me that Paul Cramer, executive director of the Classic Center, saw a symphony when he stood under “Nest.” He interpreted the poles as the conductor’s baton and the free-flowing fabric as the movement of the baton. Kelly herself experienced a different view of the piece when she gazed at it from the second floor. “From that viewpoint I was stunned to notice how the fabric incorporated itself into the outside sky — almost like clouds,” she said. Kelly encourages people to enjoy “Nest” from various vantage points — in the morning with the sunlight, at night with the special lighting, from the outside front windows, from the second floor. Each of these views will whisper a different message to the viewer. “Find something you enjoy,” she suggested, “and let yourself go with the piece.” Kelly captured the creative spirit of our community when the spark of insight touched her that first day in the Atrium. We were fortunate to find someone of her passion and skill to bring this spark of creativity to life. For more information, check out Kelly’s website, http://www.thedesignloft.com. For more information about new calls for public art in our community, check out the Athens Cultural Affairs website, http://www.athensculturalaffairs.org]]> nest_atrium_2

This article by Joan C. Curtis was initially published on 03/06/13 in the Athens Banner-Herald. Last month, the Classic Center celebrated the grand opening of its new addition, including the amazing Atrium which contains “Nest,” a sculptural art installation. The Athens Cultural Affairs Commission, representatives of the public and the Athens-Clarke County Commission selected renowned artist Maureen Kelly from St. Louis to create “Nest.” Recently, I had an opportunity to talk with Kelly about how she conceived of that amazing structural work, as well as her interest in public art. When asked to describe the piece, Kelly found it difficult to do so without incorporating the place. “I created the piece with the place and the community in mind. It took shape the instant I saw the space,” she said. Having visited the site before she submitted a proposal, Kelly explained her need to feel the height and volume — essentially, the spirit — of the space. “I could never conceptualize a piece without seeing where it will live,” she said. When she visited the Atrium, Kelly instantly recognized the need to incorporate a sense of history. The Classic Center sits on the site of the Historic Warehouse District, where storehouses for cotton and wool were located during the 19th and early 20th centuries. “When I learned that this used to be an important corridor for the textile industry, stainless steel fabric immediately came to mind,” Kelly said. “It is unique in that it mirrors many of the same qualities as cotton. Furthermore, the stainless steel fabric is completely see-through.” This unique material enabled her to create a piece with historical significance that would enhance rather than overpower the panoramic beauty of the landscape outside. Asked how anyone could conceptualize such a mammoth piece, Kelly said that when she walks into any space, her mind almost instantaneously sees something. “ I've gone full circle with site-specific,” she explained. “I began in ceramics. Once out of school, I changed from small architectural-based sculptural clay to site-specific sculpture of metals and fabrics that are integrated into the architectural intent of these extreme spaces.” She has since evolved further into the realm of space, using all kinds of fabric and design. Her studio, The Design Loft, is a known leader for site-specific fabric and metal structure for extreme and unusual spaces. Her website shows many installations, each more majestic than the next. As far as how to view “Nest,” she said, “I want people to see whatever they see, whatever they want to see. I named it “Nest” because when I gazed upon it, I felt the warmth of a gathering place and the embrace of the outside trees, but everyone will see something different.” She told me that Paul Cramer, executive director of the Classic Center, saw a symphony when he stood under “Nest.” He interpreted the poles as the conductor’s baton and the free-flowing fabric as the movement of the baton. Kelly herself experienced a different view of the piece when she gazed at it from the second floor. “From that viewpoint I was stunned to notice how the fabric incorporated itself into the outside sky — almost like clouds,” she said. Kelly encourages people to enjoy “Nest” from various vantage points — in the morning with the sunlight, at night with the special lighting, from the outside front windows, from the second floor. Each of these views will whisper a different message to the viewer. “Find something you enjoy,” she suggested, “and let yourself go with the piece.” Kelly captured the creative spirit of our community when the spark of insight touched her that first day in the Atrium. We were fortunate to find someone of her passion and skill to bring this spark of creativity to life. For more information, check out Kelly’s website, http://www.thedesignloft.com. For more information about new calls for public art in our community, check out the Athens Cultural Affairs website, http://www.athensculturalaffairs.org]]> http://www.athensculturalaffairs.org/creator-of-nest-talks-about-classic-center-sculpture/feed/ 0 Creative culture is key to thriving economy http://www.athensculturalaffairs.org/creative-culture-is-key-to-thriving-economy/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=creative-culture-is-key-to-thriving-economy http://www.athensculturalaffairs.org/creative-culture-is-key-to-thriving-economy/#comments Sun, 24 Mar 2013 18:11:03 +0000 athensculturalaffairs http://www.athensculturalaffairs.org/?p=448 Key

This article by Melissa Link was initially published on 02/06/13 in the Athens Banner-Herald. At the upcoming grand opening of the Classic Center expansion, the entire community will join in a celebration of an economic development project that will showcase Athens’ rich creative culture while annually attracting tens of thousands of new visitors to discover our city’s many charms. A thriving creative culture is widely recognized as key to a thriving economy. Communities realize their full potential when they encourage creativity, authenticity, quality of place, historic preservation, diversity, tolerance, risk-taking, responsibility — all cherished values of the creative class. As Athens grows, we must be careful to maintain the quaint, funky, eclectic downtown that helped attract our creative community while preserving the modest in-town neighborhoods that provide a diversity of residents with convenient and affordable homes. We welcome investment, but as Athens grows we must make careful efforts to maintain our community’s unique sense of place, identity and community. It’s a task that renowned historic preservationist Donovan Rypkma declares “is at the heart of the challenge of economic development, smart growth, and place economics” as communities strive to woo the creative class and the entrepreneurial businesses that follow them. It is no secret that creative people are drawn to environments with a sense of history and potential for organic renewal, and we can look to these places in our community as assets in a growing economy. The Downtown Master Plan team faces a careful balancing act between encouraging the preservation of existing authentic places and identifying appropriate locations for new development as more than a dozen large new buildings are being added to our skyline and thousands of residents settle into new apartment towers. We hope this new population will contribute to the diversity and authenticity of our downtown and embrace the creative culture that is the lifeblood of our commercial center. Progress can be guided appropriately. In addition to the pending recommendations of the downtown master plan, expanded historic districts, corridor study recommendations, and economic incentives such as tax allocation districts and opportunity zones can all serve as useful tools in shaping our built environment into a place where creative industry can thrive. As Athens creates a new Department of Economic Development, we must encourage our policymakers to recognize our local creative culture as a tremendous asset in attracting the knowledge-based industries and entrepreneurial technology start-ups that are the driving force in the new economy. According to sociologist and creativity guru Stephen Tepper, “America cannot maintain a competitive position in the world order unless we better understand how to nurture creative talent and put in place policies and practices to do so. ... Artists are harbingers of the new, contingent economy, piecing together multiple jobs, working across sectors, starting new enterprises, and embedding themselves in dense creative networks.” As trailblazing socioeconomic theorist Richard Florida puts it, “Companies and cities must make purposive efforts to establish the right ‘people climate’ for the favored class of creatives.” He cites “talent, tolerance, and technology” as essential for “a new kind of capitalism based on human creativity [that] calls for funky forms of supply-side intervention, since cities now find themselves in a high-stakes ‘war for talent,’ one that can only be won by developing the kind of ‘people climates’ valued by creatives — urban environments that are open, diverse, dynamic and cool.” New development in Athens must maintain and attract cultural and economic diversity. We must encourage affordable living and workspaces that allow the creative class to focus on pursuits that lead to successful entrepreneurship while ensuring that our working-class residents can maintain comfortable lifestyles. And we must avoid the gentrification trends of other cities in which the cost of living has outpaced wages to drive lower-income residents out of their traditional communities. Florida very recently addressed this challenge, noting “(i)t is not only a vicious cycle but an unsustainable one — economically, politically, and morally.” And it’s a problem that is increasingly evident in our own economy. Many wages stagnate while housing costs rise. Athens’ up-and-coming artists and musicians are among a diversity of residents who have traditionally been able to make ends meet working part-time bar and restaurant jobs while living in modest in-town neighborhoods that are becoming increasingly unaffordable in a rising real estate market. As we grow our economy, we must implement measures to protect the interests of all our residents as the richness of our culture is dependent upon the diversity of our community as well as the authenticity of our environment.  ]]> Key

This article by Melissa Link was initially published on 02/06/13 in the Athens Banner-Herald. At the upcoming grand opening of the Classic Center expansion, the entire community will join in a celebration of an economic development project that will showcase Athens’ rich creative culture while annually attracting tens of thousands of new visitors to discover our city’s many charms. A thriving creative culture is widely recognized as key to a thriving economy. Communities realize their full potential when they encourage creativity, authenticity, quality of place, historic preservation, diversity, tolerance, risk-taking, responsibility — all cherished values of the creative class. As Athens grows, we must be careful to maintain the quaint, funky, eclectic downtown that helped attract our creative community while preserving the modest in-town neighborhoods that provide a diversity of residents with convenient and affordable homes. We welcome investment, but as Athens grows we must make careful efforts to maintain our community’s unique sense of place, identity and community. It’s a task that renowned historic preservationist Donovan Rypkma declares “is at the heart of the challenge of economic development, smart growth, and place economics” as communities strive to woo the creative class and the entrepreneurial businesses that follow them. It is no secret that creative people are drawn to environments with a sense of history and potential for organic renewal, and we can look to these places in our community as assets in a growing economy. The Downtown Master Plan team faces a careful balancing act between encouraging the preservation of existing authentic places and identifying appropriate locations for new development as more than a dozen large new buildings are being added to our skyline and thousands of residents settle into new apartment towers. We hope this new population will contribute to the diversity and authenticity of our downtown and embrace the creative culture that is the lifeblood of our commercial center. Progress can be guided appropriately. In addition to the pending recommendations of the downtown master plan, expanded historic districts, corridor study recommendations, and economic incentives such as tax allocation districts and opportunity zones can all serve as useful tools in shaping our built environment into a place where creative industry can thrive. As Athens creates a new Department of Economic Development, we must encourage our policymakers to recognize our local creative culture as a tremendous asset in attracting the knowledge-based industries and entrepreneurial technology start-ups that are the driving force in the new economy. According to sociologist and creativity guru Stephen Tepper, “America cannot maintain a competitive position in the world order unless we better understand how to nurture creative talent and put in place policies and practices to do so. ... Artists are harbingers of the new, contingent economy, piecing together multiple jobs, working across sectors, starting new enterprises, and embedding themselves in dense creative networks.” As trailblazing socioeconomic theorist Richard Florida puts it, “Companies and cities must make purposive efforts to establish the right ‘people climate’ for the favored class of creatives.” He cites “talent, tolerance, and technology” as essential for “a new kind of capitalism based on human creativity [that] calls for funky forms of supply-side intervention, since cities now find themselves in a high-stakes ‘war for talent,’ one that can only be won by developing the kind of ‘people climates’ valued by creatives — urban environments that are open, diverse, dynamic and cool.” New development in Athens must maintain and attract cultural and economic diversity. We must encourage affordable living and workspaces that allow the creative class to focus on pursuits that lead to successful entrepreneurship while ensuring that our working-class residents can maintain comfortable lifestyles. And we must avoid the gentrification trends of other cities in which the cost of living has outpaced wages to drive lower-income residents out of their traditional communities. Florida very recently addressed this challenge, noting “(i)t is not only a vicious cycle but an unsustainable one — economically, politically, and morally.” And it’s a problem that is increasingly evident in our own economy. Many wages stagnate while housing costs rise. Athens’ up-and-coming artists and musicians are among a diversity of residents who have traditionally been able to make ends meet working part-time bar and restaurant jobs while living in modest in-town neighborhoods that are becoming increasingly unaffordable in a rising real estate market. As we grow our economy, we must implement measures to protect the interests of all our residents as the richness of our culture is dependent upon the diversity of our community as well as the authenticity of our environment.  ]]> http://www.athensculturalaffairs.org/creative-culture-is-key-to-thriving-economy/feed/ 0 Request for Proposals for Public Art to Enhance the Entrance to the ACC Library – Deadline 4/5/13 http://www.athensculturalaffairs.org/request-for-proposals-for-public-art-to-enhance-the-entrance-to-the-acc-library-deadline-4513/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=request-for-proposals-for-public-art-to-enhance-the-entrance-to-the-acc-library-deadline-4513 http://www.athensculturalaffairs.org/request-for-proposals-for-public-art-to-enhance-the-entrance-to-the-acc-library-deadline-4513/#comments Wed, 27 Feb 2013 19:15:22 +0000 athensculturalaffairs http://www.athensculturalaffairs.org/?p=421 Plaza

The Athens Cultural Affairs Commission announced today a call for artists to enhance the front wall located outside the new library building at the corner of Baxter and Dudley Streets. The proposed art installation includes the bricked plaza area that borders the property at Baxter and Dudley and the front wall as it tapers to the ground along Baxter Street.  More information about the site can be found at www.acclrenovation.blogspot.com and here. Although the expansion of the library did not include funding for an art installation, the commission secured funds for this work in the amount of $25,000. The goal of the project is to use the retaining wall as a canvas for art that reflects the theme of the library’s use and its value to the community. “We’d also like to include young people in the project,” said commission chair, Marilyn Wolf-Ragatz. “We envision receiving proposals that allow for neighborhood middle and high school student involvement.” Deadline: April 5, 2013 at 11:59 pm

Eligibility: Open to artists/art teams residing in Athens-Clarke and surrounding counties (Oconee, Jackson, Oglethorpe, Madison, Barrow). It is preferable that the artist have experience working with community and/or youth in art projects. Additional adult supervision will be made available to the artist during times when students are participating in the process.

Budget: The budget for this project is $25,000 all-inclusive. This includes, but is not limited to, artist fees, insurance, travel and materials. Timeline: The following timeline is contingent on the library construction schedule and may be changed, but is outlined and current as of this RFP as follows,

April 5, 2013 – Deadline for final proposals (by 11:59 p.m.) April 19, 2013 – Selection panel meets April 22, 2013 – Finalist contacted by Athens Cultural Affairs Commission Finalist recommended to Mayor and Commission for approval August 1, 2013 – Deadline for art completion

All proposals must be submitted to the Athens Cultural Affairs Commission through the Athens-Clarke County website  which can be accessed through our Call for Artists page.  Instructions for the submission will be posted at the ACC website.]]> Plaza

The Athens Cultural Affairs Commission announced today a call for artists to enhance the front wall located outside the new library building at the corner of Baxter and Dudley Streets. The proposed art installation includes the bricked plaza area that borders the property at Baxter and Dudley and the front wall as it tapers to the ground along Baxter Street.  More information about the site can be found at www.acclrenovation.blogspot.com and here. Although the expansion of the library did not include funding for an art installation, the commission secured funds for this work in the amount of $25,000. The goal of the project is to use the retaining wall as a canvas for art that reflects the theme of the library’s use and its value to the community. “We’d also like to include young people in the project,” said commission chair, Marilyn Wolf-Ragatz. “We envision receiving proposals that allow for neighborhood middle and high school student involvement.” Deadline: April 5, 2013 at 11:59 pm

Eligibility: Open to artists/art teams residing in Athens-Clarke and surrounding counties (Oconee, Jackson, Oglethorpe, Madison, Barrow). It is preferable that the artist have experience working with community and/or youth in art projects. Additional adult supervision will be made available to the artist during times when students are participating in the process.

Budget: The budget for this project is $25,000 all-inclusive. This includes, but is not limited to, artist fees, insurance, travel and materials. Timeline: The following timeline is contingent on the library construction schedule and may be changed, but is outlined and current as of this RFP as follows,

April 5, 2013 – Deadline for final proposals (by 11:59 p.m.) April 19, 2013 – Selection panel meets April 22, 2013 – Finalist contacted by Athens Cultural Affairs Commission Finalist recommended to Mayor and Commission for approval August 1, 2013 – Deadline for art completion

All proposals must be submitted to the Athens Cultural Affairs Commission through the Athens-Clarke County website  which can be accessed through our Call for Artists page.  Instructions for the submission will be posted at the ACC website.]]> http://www.athensculturalaffairs.org/request-for-proposals-for-public-art-to-enhance-the-entrance-to-the-acc-library-deadline-4513/feed/ 0 Athens Cultural Affairs Commission Seeks New Member http://www.athensculturalaffairs.org/athens-cultural-affairs-commission-seeks-new-member/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=athens-cultural-affairs-commission-seeks-new-member http://www.athensculturalaffairs.org/athens-cultural-affairs-commission-seeks-new-member/#comments Sat, 23 Feb 2013 15:00:01 +0000 athensculturalaffairs http://www.athensculturalaffairs.org/?p=410 ACAC

The Athens Cultural Affairs Commission (ACAC) is seeking one (1) qualified candidate to fill a 3-year volunteer position. The mission of the ACAC is to foster the development and enjoyment of performing, visual, cultural and other arts in the Athens-Clarke County community; to make recommendations to the Mayor and Commission on development and promotion of practices and policies pertaining to the arts; and to work cooperatively with Athens-Clarke County Unified Government (ACCUG) entities and other advisory commissions to include an arts element in as many areas of ACCUG planning and development as possible. The ACAC meets on the second Monday of each month at 6:00 p.m., and additional committee work is conducted between these meetings. Applicants must be Athens-Clarke County residents and registered voters.  It is also necessary that applicants have expertise in one of the arts or have demonstrated interest in the arts. The deadline for receiving applications is 5:00 p.m. on Friday, March 15, 2013.  Based upon applications received, the ACAC will select a number of individuals for brief interviews.  After making a final selection, a recommendation for appointment will be sent from the ACAC to the Mayor and Commission.  The term will begin in May. Interested applicants may submit an application online through the Athens Cultural Affairs Commission’s ACCUG website. For more information, contact Ashley L. McCormack with the Athens Cultural Affairs Commission at ashleylmccormack@gmail.com.]]> ACAC

The Athens Cultural Affairs Commission (ACAC) is seeking one (1) qualified candidate to fill a 3-year volunteer position. The mission of the ACAC is to foster the development and enjoyment of performing, visual, cultural and other arts in the Athens-Clarke County community; to make recommendations to the Mayor and Commission on development and promotion of practices and policies pertaining to the arts; and to work cooperatively with Athens-Clarke County Unified Government (ACCUG) entities and other advisory commissions to include an arts element in as many areas of ACCUG planning and development as possible. The ACAC meets on the second Monday of each month at 6:00 p.m., and additional committee work is conducted between these meetings. Applicants must be Athens-Clarke County residents and registered voters.  It is also necessary that applicants have expertise in one of the arts or have demonstrated interest in the arts. The deadline for receiving applications is 5:00 p.m. on Friday, March 15, 2013.  Based upon applications received, the ACAC will select a number of individuals for brief interviews.  After making a final selection, a recommendation for appointment will be sent from the ACAC to the Mayor and Commission.  The term will begin in May. Interested applicants may submit an application online through the Athens Cultural Affairs Commission’s ACCUG website. For more information, contact Ashley L. McCormack with the Athens Cultural Affairs Commission at ashleylmccormack@gmail.com.]]> http://www.athensculturalaffairs.org/athens-cultural-affairs-commission-seeks-new-member/feed/ 0 Call for Art: Request for Proposals for public art at Rocksprings Pool & Community Center *deadline Feb. 25, final site visit Feb. 23* UPDATE http://www.athensculturalaffairs.org/call-for-artists-rocksprings-pool/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=call-for-artists-rocksprings-pool http://www.athensculturalaffairs.org/call-for-artists-rocksprings-pool/#comments Thu, 21 Feb 2013 15:55:29 +0000 athensculturalaffairs http://www.athensculturalaffairs.org/?p=375 rocksprings_3

UPDATE

The ACAC has added one final site visit opportunity for artists/art teams interested in proposing a public art project for Rocksprings Pool. Join us on Saturday 2/23 at 12 p.m. Meet in front of the Rocksprings Community Center at 291 Henderson Extension. The property has some interesting topography and some details are not included on the site plan posted on the ACC Request For Proposals site.

UPDATE

ACAC is adding two additional site visit opportunities for artists/art teams interested in proposing a public art project for Rocksprings Pool. Join us either on Thursday 2/14 at 5:15 p.m. or on Sunday 2/17 at 4:30 p.m. Meet in front of the Rocksprings Community Center at 291 Henderson Extension. The property has some interesting topography and some details are not included on the site plan posted on the ACC Request For Proposals site.

REQUEST FOR PROPOSALS FOR PUBLIC ART PROJECT AT ROCKSPRINGS POOL & COMMUNITY CENTER

Deadline: Monday, February 25, 2013, 5 p.m.

Athens Cultural Affairs Commission (ACAC) invites Athens area artists and art teams to submit proposals for a public art project at Rocksprings Pool and Community Center. The Commission is seeking a design that will enhance the identity of the facilities; add a welcoming, fun, and visually appealing element for people of all ages; fit into the pool’s location and setting; and foster community pride. Total budget for the project is $9000. Eligibility: Open to artists/art teams residing in Athens-Clarke and surrounding counties (Oconee, Jackson, Oglethorpe, Madison, Barrow). It is preferable that the artist have experience working with community and/or youth in art projects. Additional adult supervision will be made available to the artist during times when students are participating in the process. Artists interested in submitting a proposal are encouraged to attend a site visit on Wednesday, February 6, 2013 at 1:00 p.m. Deadline for entries is 5 p.m. Monday, February 25, 2013. Finalists will be contacted by the ACAC by March 11 and the deadline for project completion is May 1, 2013. All proposals must be submitted to the Athens Cultural Affairs Commission through the Athens-Clarke County website  which can be accessed through our Call for Artists page.  Instructions for the submission will be posted at the ACC website. [nggallery id=6]]]> rocksprings_3

UPDATE

The ACAC has added one final site visit opportunity for artists/art teams interested in proposing a public art project for Rocksprings Pool. Join us on Saturday 2/23 at 12 p.m. Meet in front of the Rocksprings Community Center at 291 Henderson Extension. The property has some interesting topography and some details are not included on the site plan posted on the ACC Request For Proposals site.

UPDATE

ACAC is adding two additional site visit opportunities for artists/art teams interested in proposing a public art project for Rocksprings Pool. Join us either on Thursday 2/14 at 5:15 p.m. or on Sunday 2/17 at 4:30 p.m. Meet in front of the Rocksprings Community Center at 291 Henderson Extension. The property has some interesting topography and some details are not included on the site plan posted on the ACC Request For Proposals site.

REQUEST FOR PROPOSALS FOR PUBLIC ART PROJECT AT ROCKSPRINGS POOL & COMMUNITY CENTER

Deadline: Monday, February 25, 2013, 5 p.m.

Athens Cultural Affairs Commission (ACAC) invites Athens area artists and art teams to submit proposals for a public art project at Rocksprings Pool and Community Center. The Commission is seeking a design that will enhance the identity of the facilities; add a welcoming, fun, and visually appealing element for people of all ages; fit into the pool’s location and setting; and foster community pride. Total budget for the project is $9000. Eligibility: Open to artists/art teams residing in Athens-Clarke and surrounding counties (Oconee, Jackson, Oglethorpe, Madison, Barrow). It is preferable that the artist have experience working with community and/or youth in art projects. Additional adult supervision will be made available to the artist during times when students are participating in the process. Artists interested in submitting a proposal are encouraged to attend a site visit on Wednesday, February 6, 2013 at 1:00 p.m. Deadline for entries is 5 p.m. Monday, February 25, 2013. Finalists will be contacted by the ACAC by March 11 and the deadline for project completion is May 1, 2013. All proposals must be submitted to the Athens Cultural Affairs Commission through the Athens-Clarke County website  which can be accessed through our Call for Artists page.  Instructions for the submission will be posted at the ACC website. [nggallery id=6]]]> http://www.athensculturalaffairs.org/call-for-artists-rocksprings-pool/feed/ 0 Classic Center Panel Discussion Feb 17 2-3:30pm – Open to the public http://www.athensculturalaffairs.org/classic-center-panel-discussion-feb-17-2-330pm-open-to-the-public/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=classic-center-panel-discussion-feb-17-2-330pm-open-to-the-public http://www.athensculturalaffairs.org/classic-center-panel-discussion-feb-17-2-330pm-open-to-the-public/#comments Thu, 07 Feb 2013 17:21:12 +0000 athensculturalaffairs http://www.athensculturalaffairs.org/?p=383 Maureen Kelly's "Nest" being installed in the Classic Center

A Behind the Scenes View of How the “Nest” was Born: a panel discussion featuring Maureen Kelly, Artist

Sunday, Feb 17th at 2pm in The Olympia Room 2, Classic Center

Athens-Clarke County residents, particularly artists, are interested in learning more about the public art process; the stages and steps required to bring a public art installation to the Classic Center, how the artist was selected, and the responsibilities required of that artist.

Panelists will have this opportunity to share their personal involvement, and/or the involvement of their organization, in the process of bringing the public art installation to the Classic Center.   As our special guest, artist Maureen Kelley will be the last panel member to speak and will share both her role as a public artist and as the artist selected for the Classic Center installation.

Schedule (approximate times):

2:00     - Presentation will begin and Bill Douglas will be introduced. Bill will speak to his involvement in the first steps of the Classic Center expansion. He will then introduce the panel members.

2:10     - Panel members will explain the roles they played in completing the public art project. 2:55     - Floor will be opened to questions and discussion. 3:30     - Presentation will end. Panelists: Bill Douglas, Moderator  -  CEO and President and Chairman of the Board at Athens First Bank and Trust.  Bill chaired the Citizen’s 2011 SPLOST Advisory Committee. Maureen Kelly, Artist  -  Maureen designed, created and installed the “Nest” suspended sculpture in the atrium. Andy Herod, Athens-Clarke County Commissioner  -  Andy will discuss the procedures that were required by ACCUG as the public art project was being developed for theClassicCenter. Don Martin, SPLOST Program Administrator  -  Don will talk about the continued involvement of the SPLOST office during the building of the expansion and the decision making related to the public art installation. Paul Cramer, Classic Center Director  -  Paul will explain his involvement in the public art process as it related to the expansion’s User Group, selection of the art and the actual art installation process. Laura Nehf, Athens Cultural Affairs Commission member  -  Laura will speak about the roles the Cultural Affairs Commission played in each step of the process. Alex Sams, Selection Panel Member  -  Alex will talk about the challenges put before the selection panel as they narrowed the artists to ten finalists and later made the final artist selection.]]> Maureen Kelly's "Nest" being installed in the Classic Center

A Behind the Scenes View of How the “Nest” was Born: a panel discussion featuring Maureen Kelly, Artist

Sunday, Feb 17th at 2pm in The Olympia Room 2, Classic Center

Athens-Clarke County residents, particularly artists, are interested in learning more about the public art process; the stages and steps required to bring a public art installation to the Classic Center, how the artist was selected, and the responsibilities required of that artist.

Panelists will have this opportunity to share their personal involvement, and/or the involvement of their organization, in the process of bringing the public art installation to the Classic Center.   As our special guest, artist Maureen Kelley will be the last panel member to speak and will share both her role as a public artist and as the artist selected for the Classic Center installation.

Schedule (approximate times):

2:00     - Presentation will begin and Bill Douglas will be introduced. Bill will speak to his involvement in the first steps of the Classic Center expansion. He will then introduce the panel members.

2:10     - Panel members will explain the roles they played in completing the public art project. 2:55     - Floor will be opened to questions and discussion. 3:30     - Presentation will end. Panelists: Bill Douglas, Moderator  -  CEO and President and Chairman of the Board at Athens First Bank and Trust.  Bill chaired the Citizen’s 2011 SPLOST Advisory Committee. Maureen Kelly, Artist  -  Maureen designed, created and installed the “Nest” suspended sculpture in the atrium. Andy Herod, Athens-Clarke County Commissioner  -  Andy will discuss the procedures that were required by ACCUG as the public art project was being developed for theClassicCenter. Don Martin, SPLOST Program Administrator  -  Don will talk about the continued involvement of the SPLOST office during the building of the expansion and the decision making related to the public art installation. Paul Cramer, Classic Center Director  -  Paul will explain his involvement in the public art process as it related to the expansion’s User Group, selection of the art and the actual art installation process. Laura Nehf, Athens Cultural Affairs Commission member  -  Laura will speak about the roles the Cultural Affairs Commission played in each step of the process. Alex Sams, Selection Panel Member  -  Alex will talk about the challenges put before the selection panel as they narrowed the artists to ten finalists and later made the final artist selection.]]> http://www.athensculturalaffairs.org/classic-center-panel-discussion-feb-17-2-330pm-open-to-the-public/feed/ 0 Classic Center Celebration Feb. 16th 2-6pm http://www.athensculturalaffairs.org/classic-center-opening-celebration/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=classic-center-opening-celebration http://www.athensculturalaffairs.org/classic-center-opening-celebration/#comments Fri, 18 Jan 2013 21:52:13 +0000 athensculturalaffairs http://www.athensculturalaffairs.org/?p=355 Maureen Kelly's "Nest" being installed in the Classic Center

In celebration of the Classic Center’s expansion and its public art installation in the Atrium, a grand opening is scheduled for February 16th from 2pm to 6pm. The event is free and open to all members of the community. Tickets are required and can be picked up at the Classic Center Box office and the UGA Performing Arts Center box office, starting January 28th.

2-4pm: Big Time under the Big Top

A variety of performers from Athens will create an exciting circus experience from 2- 4pm with ongoing performances throughout the new  Atrium. Come see fire spinners, a unicyclist, belly dancers, puppets, an accordion player, clowns, stilt walkers, and jugglers. There will also be scheduled performances by trapeze artists from Canopy Studio, East Athens Dance Center dancers, and BMX expert Dane Beardsley. At 3pm, there will be a ribbon cutting and an unveiling of Athens’ new public art installation, Nest. Artist Maureen Kelly will be present for the event.

2-6pm: Artists’ Market

22 local visual artists will have booths in an Artists’ Market located in the new Grand Hallway. These artists will have works on display and for sale. The Market was designed and coordinated by the Classic Center and The Athens Cultural Affairs Commission. Artists from Clarke, Barrow, Jackson, Madison, Oconee and Oglethorpe counties were invited to apply for the Market. Applications were accepted on a first-come, first-served basis. To support the local arts community, the Classic Center is not charging standard show costs (booth fees or percentages). The artists participating in the Market are: Margaret Agner,  Fiber Elizabeth Barton,  Fiber Heidi Behrendsen,  Painter Susie Burch,  Painter Robert Clements, Works on Paper, Painter Sylvia Dawe, Metal work Juanna Gnecco & Carter Gilles,  Ceramics Anita Heady,  Fiber Frances Jemini,  Mixed Media Keith Karnok,  Painter Lou Kregel,  Painter Leslie Litt,  Metal work Pat McCaffrey,  Ceramics Tina McCullough,  Ceramics Bonnie Montgomery,  Fiber Annette Paskiewicz,  Glass Diane Perry,  Metal Josh Podvin,  Ceramics William Pierson,  Works on paper Jennifer Schildknect,  Mixed Media Mike Sellers,  Woodturner

4-6 pm: Concert in the Park

At 4 p.m., the celebration moves into the Grand Hall for a concert featuring the Athens Symphony.  There will also be a special appearance by the New Columbian Brass Band, a 23-piece ensemble.  Guests are encouraged to bring food and enjoy a “Picnic in the Park.” Join us for a fun, family-friendly, arts-filled day at the new Classic Center.]]> Maureen Kelly's "Nest" being installed in the Classic Center

In celebration of the Classic Center’s expansion and its public art installation in the Atrium, a grand opening is scheduled for February 16th from 2pm to 6pm. The event is free and open to all members of the community. Tickets are required and can be picked up at the Classic Center Box office and the UGA Performing Arts Center box office, starting January 28th.

2-4pm: Big Time under the Big Top

A variety of performers from Athens will create an exciting circus experience from 2- 4pm with ongoing performances throughout the new  Atrium. Come see fire spinners, a unicyclist, belly dancers, puppets, an accordion player, clowns, stilt walkers, and jugglers. There will also be scheduled performances by trapeze artists from Canopy Studio, East Athens Dance Center dancers, and BMX expert Dane Beardsley. At 3pm, there will be a ribbon cutting and an unveiling of Athens’ new public art installation, Nest. Artist Maureen Kelly will be present for the event.

2-6pm: Artists’ Market

22 local visual artists will have booths in an Artists’ Market located in the new Grand Hallway. These artists will have works on display and for sale. The Market was designed and coordinated by the Classic Center and The Athens Cultural Affairs Commission. Artists from Clarke, Barrow, Jackson, Madison, Oconee and Oglethorpe counties were invited to apply for the Market. Applications were accepted on a first-come, first-served basis. To support the local arts community, the Classic Center is not charging standard show costs (booth fees or percentages). The artists participating in the Market are: Margaret Agner,  Fiber Elizabeth Barton,  Fiber Heidi Behrendsen,  Painter Susie Burch,  Painter Robert Clements, Works on Paper, Painter Sylvia Dawe, Metal work Juanna Gnecco & Carter Gilles,  Ceramics Anita Heady,  Fiber Frances Jemini,  Mixed Media Keith Karnok,  Painter Lou Kregel,  Painter Leslie Litt,  Metal work Pat McCaffrey,  Ceramics Tina McCullough,  Ceramics Bonnie Montgomery,  Fiber Annette Paskiewicz,  Glass Diane Perry,  Metal Josh Podvin,  Ceramics William Pierson,  Works on paper Jennifer Schildknect,  Mixed Media Mike Sellers,  Woodturner

4-6 pm: Concert in the Park

At 4 p.m., the celebration moves into the Grand Hall for a concert featuring the Athens Symphony.  There will also be a special appearance by the New Columbian Brass Band, a 23-piece ensemble.  Guests are encouraged to bring food and enjoy a “Picnic in the Park.” Join us for a fun, family-friendly, arts-filled day at the new Classic Center.]]> http://www.athensculturalaffairs.org/classic-center-opening-celebration/feed/ 0