For Immediate Release
Contact: Julie Westendorff
jwestendorff@alleganyarts.org
301.777.2787 (ARTS)
Cumberland Arts & Entertainment District Announces Public Art Semi-Finalists
CUMBERLAND, MD—The Arts & Entertainment District of Cumberland is pleased to announce the semi-finalists in development of a Public Art Across Maryland (PAAM) planning grant. The proposed project, located on the CBIZ Financial Services building located at the corner of Mechanic and Baltimore Streets, is the first in a series of future public art projects which will adorn the newly-revitalized downtown, engaging residents and visitors, and creating a visible connector to the city’s historic center.
Earlier this summer, a Request for Proposals was sent to artists statewide, encouraging them to submit concepts. A public art review panel comprised of local artists, city officials, arts administrators, as well as technical support from the City Engineer and Historic Preservation offices was assembled to review the concepts and advance three semifinalists. The three concepts selected included proposals from local artist and arts educator, Kat Wharton; landscape designer and artist, Frank Asher, and local artist team, Annie Kilcoyne, a creative designer and art consultant, and William Baxter, local artist, educator and illustrator. The planning grant was funded through the Maryland State Arts Council’s Public Art Across Maryland program and the project is being funded by both the Arts & Entertainment District of Cumberland and local arts supporter, Sandra Saville.
Renderings of the proposed concepts will be available for view at the Allegany Arts Council beginning September 9, and will remain available through September 27. Following this period, a public meeting will occur in which semi-finalists will formally present their design proposals. The date and time of the meeting will be announced as soon as details are finalized. Members of the public are invited to attend as observers only.
The public review panel will meet following the artist presentations to select a finalist, who will receive an additional $2,500 to further refine and complete the concept, working under supervision of the Allegany Arts Council, who will administer the project and funding.
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