Detroit (July 18, 2011) - ArtsCorpsDetroit, in partnership with Wayne State University's College of Fine, Performing and Communication Arts, is pleased to announce LOTS of Art!, an initiative designed to combat urban blight while highlighting Detroit's vibrant art culture and strengthening the bonds between Wayne State, neighborhood associations and the community at large.
ArtsCorpDetroit is accepting proposals from Wayne State University alumni, students, faculty and staff for innovative ways to transform abandoned lots into art. Projects may take the form of public sculptures, painted murals on walls or fences, benches for meeting or relaxing, performance spaces, picnic areas, dance platforms, meditation spaces, creative play equipment, urban gardens or entirely original ideas.
In this inaugural round of LOTS of Art!, with others to follow, ArtsCorpsDetroit secured four properties: one in the Hope District, two in the East Jefferson Business District and one in west Midtown. Exact locations and photos are online at http://artscorpsdetroit.wayne.edu/lots.php.
Winning entries are eligible for up to $1,500 in grants to fund the implementation of their project. All project installations should be completed by September 20, 2011. Obtain the LOTS of Art! request for proposals document and application cover sheet online at http://artscorpsdetroit.wayne.edu/lots.pdf.
ArtsCorpsDetroit also seeks LOTS of Art! volunteers who will work closely with neighborhood groups and local artists experienced in community arts projects. Volunteers can register online at http://artscorpsdetroit.wayne.edu/get-involved/volunteer.php.
With questions about LOTS of Art!, please contact ArtsCorpsDetroit at 313-309-4120 or artscorpsdetroit@wayne.edu.
ArtsCorpsDetroit is a community-based program at Wayne State University that offers service-learning courses and volunteer opportunities for students and others who want to help revitalize the urban community through the arts. ArtsCorpsDetroit is sponsored by the Irvin D. Reid Honors College at Wayne State University; CommunityEngagement@Wayne; WSU President Emeritus and Eugene Applebaum Chair in Community Engagement, Dr. Irvin D. Reid; TechTown and Wayne State's College of Fine, Performing and Communication Arts.
Wayne State University is a premier urban research institution offering more than 400 academic programs through 13 schools and colleges to nearly 32,000 students.