What if we…

thought about art as a serious and valid means toward addressing our goals and mission.  not just as a frilly, pretty, fluffy, extra attachment

started an unofficial public art campaign.  something that brought delight, loveliness, and thoughtful questions to our everyday environments and to all the (diverse) people who walk there.

had artists collaborate with other members to create cross-discipline art, shows, and ideas.  we could team up and learn from one another and maybe share it with a broader audience too

made (physical) space for artists to try things

explored how to be modern-day art patrons

figured out ways to give grants to artists so that they could have the resources to take on projects.  it could also propel our artists toward high standards and commitment levels

made art-making a regular part of our thinking process

 

other people’s thoughts on that:

“art can’t change the world, but there’s a difference in real and painted time.  painted time is contemplative, it can allow for thought and make people reassess.”

“where ideas can co-exist, collide, or coalesce”

“a natural form of discovering the world, almost as natural as breathing”

“a citizenry so removed from the rhythms of nature that we march through our lives as mere sleepwalkers, blinded, deafened, and senseless.  Robotically existing in sterilized surroundings that numb the mind, weaken the body, and atrophy the soul.”

“You’re not handcuffed to culture”

 

{from ashley}