HomeMy WebLinkAboutProclamation - Year of Public Art in Ashland 2026 I
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-A5 H LAN D
A Proclamation declaring 2026 as the Year of Public Art in Ashland
WHEREAS,the City of Ashland is nationally recognized for its vibrant arts and cultural community,
where the arts enrich quality of life,strengthen the local economy,and foster civic identity;and
WHEREAS,the Public Arts Advisory Committee works to enhance the cultural and aesthetic quality
of life in Ashland by advancing public art, preserving access to the arts,and supporting creative
expression in public spaces;and
WHEREAS,2026 will see the advancement of several notable public art projects throughout
Ashland,including the installation of a new mural by renowned artist John Pugh,continued
development of the Playwrights Walk celebrating Ashland's theatrical legacy and building upon
the Oregon Shakespeare Festival's 90th anniversary season,the installation of the Guanajuato
Heart sculpture recognizing Ashland's Sister City relationship with Guanajuato,and the
participation of local artists in the Traffic Signal Box painting project,bringing community based
artwork into the public realm;and
WHEREAS,the City of Ashland's public art collection extends throughout its parks and trail system,
where sculptures,fountains,and interpretive works enhance the natural environment and provide
accessible cultural experiences,including the community funded restoration of the historic Perozzi
Fountain, reflecting a shared commitment to preserving and reinvesting in Ashland's artistic and
cultural assets;and
WHEREAS,Southern Oregon University plays a vital role in advancing the arts in Ashland through
the Oregon Center for the Arts at Southern Oregon University and the Schneider Museum of Art,
which provide exhibitions,performances,and educational opportunities that enrich the cultural life
of the community and support both emerging and established artists;
NOW,THEREFORE, I,Tanya Graham,Mayor of the City of Ashland,Oregon,on behalf of the City
Council and Ashland Parks and Recreation Commission,do hereby proclaim the year 2026 as the
"YEAR OF ART IN ASHLAND"in the City of Ashland,and I urge all residents,businesses,artists,and
visitors to celebrate,participate in,and support the arts in all its forms throughout the year,and
FURTHER, I recognize the invaluable contributions of artists,cultural organizations,educators,and
volunteers whose creativity and dedication continue to shape a vibrant and inspired community.
D ed this day of ,' 026
Tanya Grahappayor Alissa Kolodzinski,City Recorder
Jim Bachman,APRC Chair
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