Greenbelt City Council business is conducted in chambers not previously known for aesthetic appearance. After a recent council room refurbishment that included removing 20-year-old drapes, applying fresh paint and adding window blinds, the room remained visually boring. Councilmembers conferred with city staff. With the endorsement of the Greenbelt Arts Advisory Board, staff launched a new program of rotating displays that will honor Greenbelt artists while brightening the room and creating visual interest.
Part of the display development was Councilmember Colin Byrd’s vision, seeing an opportunity to display the art of Greenbelt students and other local artists. He said councilmembers agreed the council room should showcase art. After coordination with staff, Arts Supervisor Nicole DeWald took the lead in programming exhibits for the space.
To achieve the council room’s aesthetic update, DeWald coordinated with the Department of Public Works to have a track system installed for hanging artwork. She then reached out to a number of local art educators, including the art teachers at Greenbelt public schools, inviting them to participate in an inaugural show. She said, “The display celebrates Greenbelt’s vibrant network of life-long learning opportunities in the visual arts, including both academic and community-based programs. The City of Greenbelt honors the leadership of its art teachers in promoting curiosity, trust, wellness, confidence and creative expression throughout the community.” Displays in the chamber are expected to rotate quarterly. They will feature primarily group exhibitions of artwork by youth and adults who live, work and learn in Greenbelt.
Read more of this story in the August 8 News Review.
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