The Art @APL Program will look a little different this year! I had a chance to speak with Amy Griffin, the Exhibitions and Public Programs Coordinator at the Opalka Gallery, who told me about all the changes in the Art @APL program. With the closure of the libraries due to the pandemic, Opalka Gallery curators had to adapt to continue to fulfill their mission to support regional artists and engage library patrons with art that enhances their surroundings. The Art @APL Program directors created Creative Curbsides, a public art initiative that will feature local art in the windows of the Bach and Arbor Hill branches.
Out of 14 proposals, the Opalka curators chose two:
For the Bach Branch – Eight Plums, Gracelee Lawrence and Ben Seretan’s artist duo
For the Arbor Hill Branch – Dana Sela in collaboration with Kim Tateo of Tivoli Lake Preserve and Farm
These artists will utilize the front-facing windows as well as the architecture of the buildings in their projects. At Bach, the team will use an iridescent film that changes color depending on where the viewer is standing to create nature-inspired imagery. At the Arbor Hill branch, the team will create a design inspired by Tivoli Lake Preserve and Farm and will be created out of tape and colored tissue paper for a stained-glass effect.
Amy notes the positive impact these installments can have in light of the Covid 19 pandemic and the dark winter days: “Filling the windows of these two branches will bring bright colors and interesting designs right to the curbside to be enjoyed by passerby and patrons alike. Often art helps us make sense of the world around us, but it can also bring us joy and hope when the world around us feels uncertain.”
Amy looks forward to being able to gather together again, “when we’ll return to planning themed group exhibitions at the Pine Hills Branch, with lively receptions and community engagement.”
If you don’t have a chance to view these Creative Curbsides in person, look out for photos on the Art @APL website and their social media!
