A new era for the arts is about to begin with the announcement of a capital improvements budget earmarked to beautify the city. An initial fund was established to begin installing works of art as soon as possible. The City will provide $125,000 annually for the first four years of the program to fund the project.
A public art committee will be established with a broad based number of members from a variety of backgrounds. Additional funding will come through donations, grants, sponsorships, any other opportunities that are available. This is good news because, as history has shown, art in public places shapes a city and the city becomes known for her recognition of the artistic side of the community. Virtually every community has an art scene, but in most places the art scene is peripheral to the life of the community, which revolves around industry or some other activity. As Albert Einstein once said: "The true test of a city's vitality is not in its commerce, but its arts." |