|
|
|
|
| |
Here's What We're Chirping About
birds i view was one of the largest public art exhibitions ever to come to Prince George's County. Seventy-five, five-foot bird sculptures were creatively designed by area artists and modeled after the bluebird, the official county bird and a species native to Maryland.
birds i view celebrated the arts in Prince George's County by providing opportunities for area artists to participate, and for residents and visitors to enjoy whimsical art and acquaint or reacquaint themselves with the community.
birds i view was modeled after the successful "Fish Out of Water" (Baltimore) and "Party Animals" (Washington, D.C.) public art displays, and was a collaboration between The Maryland-National Capital Park and Planning Commission's Department of Parks and Recreation and the Prince George's Arts Council. The bird design and fabrication was completed by local designer Steven Weitzman, whose studio is located in Prince George's County's newly established Gateway Arts District in Brentwood. A fall Bird Call to area artists resulted in nearly 200 design submissions. A prestigious panel selected 111 designs by 83 artists from which sponsors could select. Selected artists were from Maryland, Virginia, West Virginia, Connecticut, and the District of Columbia.
birds i view provided an opportunity for partnership and collaboration among government agencies, area businesses, non-profit organizations, and individuals in support of public art.
birds i view benefited youth art programs. All funds raised support the Prince George's Arts Council's Arts in Education grant program.
During the production phase of the project in late spring and early summer of 2003, 11 artists were provided work space in a group studio in West Hyattsville, donated by area developer Harvey Maisel. Many other artists chose to work at their homes, schools or individual studio space. Excitement mounted as these talented people of all ages and backgrounds brought birds to life with paint, mosaic tiles, fabric, feathers and many other media. Now they've left the nest and may be seen on the streets and pathways of Prince George's County.
For more information about the birds i view public art project, or to learn more about M-NCPPC arts activities and programs, contact Barbara Funk. You may send questions or requests by mail to:
Barbara Funk
M-NCPPC Department of Parks and Recreation
Arts and Cultural Heritage Division
6611 Kenilworth Avenue
Riverdale, MD 20737
You may also call 301-454-1450 or email Barbara.Funk@pgparks.com.
|
|
