Artists Wanted: Transform Inez Nash Park's Shoot-Around Court with Your Design

Toledo's vibrant art scene is about to get a whole lot more colorful. The Arts Commission and the City of Toledo’s Parks Department are teaming up to revamp Inez Nash Park's shoot-around court, and they need your artistic touch to make it happen!

The project is calling for artists to create stunning designs for the entire 1170-square-foot court surface and its five backboards. It's a unique opportunity to blend art with community space, and three lucky artists or teams will be selected to bring their visions to life.

Each chosen finalist will receive a hearty stipend of $2,000 for their design efforts. But it's not just about the money; it's about making a lasting impact in a public space. The jury is looking for artists who have experience in incorporating public art into park settings and are open to community feedback during their creative process.

This call for artists is open to anyone in the U.S. aged 18 and over. So whether you’re working solo or as part of a diverse artistic team, your creative ideas are welcome! Simply submit your qualifications online through the Arts Commission's website.

Here’s a sneak peek at the project timeline: The Request for Qualifications (RFQ) kicks off on August 21, with a submission deadline of September 24. From there, applications will be reviewed starting September 25. Finalists will be notified by October 17 and will visit the site on October 29. Proposals are due on December 3, and winners will be announced on December 17. The winning designs will be installed in 2025, making Inez Nash Park a must-visit art hotspot in Toledo.

Aside from giving artists a platform, this project underscores The Arts Commission's commitment to inclusion, diversity, equity, and access. They believe in using art to create spaces for meaningful conversations and community healing. By embracing our differences and celebrating our similarities, the arts can drive a more vibrant and inclusive society.

The Arts Commission’s dedication to supporting artists spans programming and events that make art accessible to everyone. These initiatives help build pathways for both emerging and established artists to enhance their skills and share their work with the community.

The Inez Nash Park project is just a piece of The Arts Commission's larger puzzle. Their mission is to inspire a more vibrant community. For years, they have been strengthening Toledo by fostering creativity and celebrating life through art. Projects like this shoot-around court are vital in reviving the area, promoting a sense of place, and building a brighter future.

And let’s not forget the recent highlights: over $100K was paid to local artists this year alone! The commitment to inspiring, creating, and being relevant is at the heart of everything they do.

Moreover, The Arts Commission continuously rolls out educational efforts to engage Toledo residents of all ages with public art. They’ve even produced books like 'The ABC’s of Public Art,' which are freely available and designed to encourage young children to explore and appreciate public art from an early age.

So, whether you’re an artist eager to leave your mark or a community member ready to support and enjoy these creative endeavors, this project is something to get excited about. Keep an eye out for updates and become a part of Toledo’s booming art scene!