Transforming Cleveland's Neighborhoods with Innovative Public Art

Cleveland is embarking on an ambitious public art initiative, utilizing .9 million in COVID-19 relief funds to support seven transformative projects across the city. From immersive theater in public housing to sculptural installations in Asia Town and vibrant murals in the Clark-Fulton neighborhood, these initiatives aim to revitalize communities and showcase the diverse talents of local artists.

Unlocking the Power of Art to Uplift and Empower

Choreographed Deconstruction and Recycled Artistry

In the Woodhill neighborhood, artist and architect Malena Grigoli will lead a captivating project that deconstructs a vacant house in a choreographed performance. The materials from the house will then be repurposed into bricks, which will be used to create a public artwork to be displayed on the site. This innovative approach not only addresses the issue of vacant properties but also transforms the space into a canvas for artistic expression, fostering a sense of community and renewal.

Immersive Experiences in Public Housing

The Transformative Arts Fund will also support a project titled "Portals of Knowing," led by artist LaTecia Delores Wilson Stone. This immersive theater experience will be staged in collaboration with the Cuyahoga Metropolitan Housing Authority, bringing the power of the arts directly to residents of public housing. By creating an immersive and engaging environment, the project aims to uplift and empower the community, showcasing the transformative potential of the arts.

Sculpting a Vibrant Asia Town

In the St. Clair/Superior neighborhood, artist Jordan Wong will work with The Sculpture Center to transform Asia Town with an outdoor community space. This place-making initiative will feature fabricated installations and sculptures, creating a vibrant and inviting public space that celebrates the rich cultural heritage of the area.

Uplifting Murals in Clark-Fulton

The Storer Ave. Phoenix Project, led by artist Ariel Vergez, will bring a series of uplifting murals to the Clark-Fulton neighborhood. Partnering with the Metro West Community Development Organization, this project will combine murals, live gardens, and handmade sculptures to inspire and uplift the community.

Afrofuturist Immersive Experiences

In the Fairfax neighborhood, artist Jameelah Rahman will collaborate with the Cleveland Clinic's Langston Hughes Center to create "All My Babies Birthing the Afrofuture," an immersive interdisciplinary arts experience that explores Afrofuturist themes and celebrates the resilience and creativity of the community.

Breathing Creativity into the Community

The IMPART216 project, led by artist Robin Robinson and partnering with Ingenuity, will bring mural-making and breath work workshops to neighborhoods across Cleveland, including Mt. Pleasant, Glennville, Cudell, Clark-Fulton, Woodhill, and Central. This multifaceted initiative aims to infuse creativity and wellness into the community, empowering residents to express themselves through the arts.

Festivals and Activations Celebrating Diverse Creatives

The "For Art's Sake® – Empowering Diverse Creatives, Our City & the Youth" project, led by artist Kumar Arora and partnering with the Campus District, will stage a series of festivals and activations across Hough, Campus District, Downtown, and University Circle. These events will showcase music, visual art, fashion, and commerce, celebrating the diverse creative talents within the community and providing opportunities for engagement and empowerment.