The Whitewater Arts Alliance is seeking participants for its ninth annual public arts project, centered on the theme is “A Barrel of Fun in Whitewater.”
This year, amateur and professional artists are needed to paint blank water barrels, which will grace downtown Whitewater streets this summer.
“Get a group together to turn your blank barrel into art. Or use this as a solitary winter project,” said the Arts Alliance. “Put your creative juices to work this winter and share your projects with all of Whitewater in the spring and summer.”
Sale of the public art project pieces is the major fundraiser for the Whitewater Arts Alliance.
All the barrels will be auctioned off at 5 p.m. on Saturday, Sept. 28 at the Whitewater Arts Alliance’s Cultural Arts Center, 402 W. Main St.
Proceeds go to help the Whitewater Arts Alliance continue to provide programs and opportunities to celebrate the arts in Whitewater.
“We hope to engage a variety of artists for this year’s public arts project and tap into our community’s creativity. Certainly Whitewater is a better place because of this project, and the Whitewater Arts Alliance is delighted to spearhead it,” said Mark McPhail, president of the Whitewater Arts Alliance.
The first public art project, sponsored by the Whitewater Arts Alliance, took place in 2005 when 48 fish were created by artists, displayed along Main Street, and sold to benefit the Alliance.
In 2006, artists painted 56 chairs for display. In 2007 birdhouses were created, displayed and auctioned. In 2008 butterflies perched on the light poles in downtown Whitewater.
Bicycles were featured in 2009 to bring attention to the many bike trails and fitness options available in the community.
“Thinking Outside of the Box” was the 2010 theme, lanterns were featured in 2011, and 2012 was a Banner Year in Whitewater.
“Artists young and old continue to wow the community with their creative, unique perspectives,” said the Arts Alliance.
The barrel forms are available at GMA Printing, 136 W. Main St., for $25. GMA’s phone number is (262) 473-2711. A form and a set of basic instructions will be included along with a number to call with questions.
Individuals who would like to sponsor an artist, should contact Roni Telfer at (920) 728-1777.
