COLUMBUS, Ohio – Columbus City Councilmember Eileen Y. Paley, the Greater Columbus Arts Council (Arts Council), and Experience Columbus are partnering to give local artists a chance to have their work displayed for sale in a prominent downtown location. A limited number of pieces will be offered for sale at the Experience Columbus store in the Arena District. Councilmember Paley is asking Columbus artists to create keepsakes or gifts that highlight the uniqueness of our community and display the creativity and energy of our city and region. “Columbus is home to many gifted artists, and I want to make sure that they have the opportunity to share their talents with the world,” said Councilmember Paley. “The artists who are selected to participate in this program will make it possible for visitors to take a piece of Columbus wherever they go.” Artists of any discipline who work or live in Columbus can apply for the program. Arts Council staff will review proposals to ensure that they meet requirements and then a selection committee comprised of respected arts and community leaders will choose the pieces that will be displayed in the Experience Columbus store. “The arts are an important part of our city’s cultural image, so we’re excited to offer local pieces for sale in our visitors center,” said Brian Ross, President and CEO of Experience Columbus. “This collaboration with GCAC gives us the opportunity to support local artists and show off the creative spirit of Columbus.” “Creating opportunities for Columbus artists to showcase and sell their work is a focus of the work we do for the city,” said Tom Katzenmeyer, President of the Arts Council. “Being able to partner with City Council and Experience Columbus is a great way to leverage resources for the benefit of artists.” Artists are encouraged, but not required, to create pieces in the $5-$40 price range that can be easily transported by domestic or international travelers. Examples could include:
- Small photobooks
- Postcard sets
- Posters or large prints
- Lapel pins
- Key chains
- Paperweights
Online registration is open now through 5 p.m. on December 5. For submission guidelines and instructions, go to https://www.gcac.org/wp-content/uploads/2014/11/CallForArtists-CityofColumbus-Keepsake.pdf Questions about submissions should be directed to Ruby Harper, Grants & Services director at (614) 221-8406 or rharper@gcac.org. About the Greater Columbus Arts Council: Through vision and leadership, advocacy and collaboration, the Greater Columbus Arts Council supports art and advances the culture of the region. A catalyst for excellence and innovation, the Arts Council funds exemplary artists and arts organizations and provides programs, events and services of public value that educate and engage all audiences in our community. The Arts Council thanks the City of Columbus and the Ohio Arts Council for their continued support. The Arts Council has been recognized as one of the “5 NonProfits to Watch” in 2014 by The Columbus Foundation.
CONTACT: Jami Goldstein (614) 221-8492 jgoldstein@gcac.org
