An innovative community art project involving the creation of nearly 400 small works of art in nearly every medium imaginable launches this week.
Completed 2008 Mosaic Project. Photograph by Randy Sibilsky
Created by the non-profit Hardy Gallery in 2008, the project entitled the “Community Mosaic Project,” was developed as a way to help raise awareness of the arts and make them accessible for every interested member of the community. The project involves the creative skills of community members of all ages and abilities – children, adults, adolescents, seniors, professional artists, art-lovers or art-appreciators.
The Hardy will provide interested individuals with one 6” by 6” blank canvas to create a work of art. There are no restrictions regarding subject matter or the kinds of materials one can use to make the art, except that it must be appropriate for display at the gallery, created using the canvas supplied and must not exceed the 6-inch by 6-inch dimension. Participants are also required to complete an artist statement that will accompany the finished piece.
“The project provides the perfect platform to build awareness of the visual arts to both new and existing audiences,” says Elizabeth Meissner-Gigstead, executive director. “The excitement and enthusiasm surrounding last year’s event far exceeded our expectations. We had an array of incredible little artworks and, since the project also provides funds through the sale of the works, it was a super affordable way for patrons to support our organization.”
Beginning in May, The Hardy will provide individuals new to the art-making process, a series of free workshops with professional artists. The workshops will give an extra helping-hand and provide supplies as well as the opportunity to get assistance from experienced artists. The first session will be held on Thurs., May 28 from 1 – 4pm in the Gathering Room at Scandia Village in Sister Bay. This is a free workshop and is open to the general public, but reservations are required. Please call 920.854.2210 to reserve a space.
For individuals who don’t need instruction but would like to participate, canvases are now available by calling or emailing info@thehardy.org. Completed artwork is due back by Monday, June 30. For more information about the Community Mosaic Project please visit www.thehardy.org.
The historic Hardy Gallery is a non-profit organization enriching the vibrancy of the Door County community by promoting and fostering local art.
