Media Release: 2020 King Street Community Art Project now installed
July 10, 2020 – The construction fencing in downtown Midland now boasts a collection of original paintings created by 39 Simcoe County artists.
The 2020 King Street Community Art Project includes 2' x 2' paintings by artists from Midland, Penetanguishene, Tay, Tiny, Beausoleil First Nation, Orillia, Midhurst and Innisfil, ranging in age from 13 to some in their seventies.
“It was such a creative and uplifting project to undertake during this time of self-isolation and uncertainty," said Bridget Dewyze, one of the participating artists who incorporated her family when completing her panel. “Our whole family was able to participate in some way and find joy in the process."
The goal of the Town of Midland project is to beautify the downtown core during the King St. Rejuvenation Project and welcome shoppers back as stores and businesses begin to re-open and continue to provide curbside pick up.
“The paintings showcase the amazing talent that we have in our area and we thank all of the participating artists," said Mayor Stewart Strathearn. “Given the long history of creativity and artistry in Midland, and with the current restrictions on accessing indoor spaces, the Town is very excited for this opportunity to bring art outdoors for our residents to enjoy."
The paintings will be on display until the construction fencing remains on King St. While the original intent was for a temporary art project, some panels may find a permanent home at the Harbour office at the Town Dock.
Update - June 2, 2020
Please be advised that the application period for the 2020 King Street Community Art Project has now closed. Thank you to everyone who applied!
You can watch for the art panels to begin appearing on construction fencing on King Street towards the end of June, and photos of all panels will be added to this web page as well.
Media Release: Call for artists for 2020 King Street Community Art Project
The Town of Midland is accepting applications from Simcoe County residents to create 2' x 2' paintings to beautify the downtown core during the King Street Rejuvenation Project.
The 2020 King Street Community Art Project will see 24 paintings installed on the fencing surrounding the construction areas along King St.
“The fencing provides us with the opportunity to create an outdoor gallery of original paintings," said Karen Mealing, Cultural Development Coordinator with the Town of Midland. “We are looking for submissions with positive and uplifting subject matter and themes to greet the public as local businesses are able to start to re-open."
The call is open to those living in Simcoe County, Barrie and Orillia, however preference will be given to those who live in Midland, Penetanguishene, Tay, Tiny and members of Beausoleil First Nation. Households are also able to participate, provided that an individual who is 18 years or older is available to sign the artist agreement.
Selected artists will be provided with a 2' x 2' piece of lightweight aluminum panel along with a few supplies. They will also receive a $75 honourarium to assist with the purchase of any additional supplies and as a thank you for taking part in the project.
Those selected must have the capability to collect supplies and return completed panels during arranged dates and times.
The application deadline to be considered for this project is June 2 at 12 p.m. Submissions must include a completed application form and images of three completed paintings. The inclusion of an artist bio and/or artist statement is optional.
The deadline to complete the paintings is June 26 and the paintings will be installed the week of June 29.
For more details contact:
Karen Mealing
Cultural Development Coordinator/Ontario's Best Butter Tart Festival Coordinator
705-526-4275 ext 2200 | C: 705-333-3512
kmealing@midland.ca
