As an expanded idea for doing the makeovers on the downtown windows, myself and a few other participants thought it would be a nice idea–once we have enough completed windows, to turn it into a unique kind of art walk in itself with a little card map plotting out the various locations. Such can encourage foot traffic in other parts of downtown. The intention is to have as many of these displays lit at night as possible, or for what a zero dollars budget will allow. In these tough times, if we have a a glut of empty store spaces, and also have a lot of art that sits in storage collecting dust—why not “paint the town” with it!
On the card, I thought of writing something like the following:
“Welcome to Downtown Cleveland’s “OUTDOOR, SELF-GUIDED–STOREFRONT WINDOW SHOPPING–ART WALK!” A unique experience deserves quite a name like that! Please follow the path listed on the map to find showcase windows in many prominent/historic buildings featuring the art of many local artists. On behalf of the participating property owners and artists, we appreciate your support—so, if you like the art, OR, would like to purchase any specific work, please make a direct connection at the contact information provided in the windows. We’d love to hear from you and what art you liked best about this walk! You can also phone 330-393-4448 for comments or questions!”
The name is not carved in stone, so if you have a suggestion, feel free to share! So far we have gained participants at Public Square, E. 14th and Bolivar (across from Gray’s Armory) Huron (Star Plaza), The Statler Building, Halee’s, and soon to be Chesterfield Apartments and a place on Prospect. I am proposing this to property managers only a few at a time as our volunteers are limited, but there are more spaces being pursued. Meanwhile, let’s see empty spaces slowly be transformed into making parts of downtown into an outdoor art gallery!
This post was written by a DCA City Advocate. To learn more about the City Advocate Program, please click here.
