Art for All
7/6/2022Art has been transforming public spaces since ancient times. A life without art is no life at all — and these advocates know it. Whether they are organizing a major art festival or simply painting a mural outside their business, these local residents have played an integral role in providing public art for their communities.
What and why: West Des Moines
ALLISON ULLESTAD
What exactly is public art? According to Allison Ullestad, culture and enrichment supervisor for the City of West Des Moines, a piece must meet three criteria to be considered public art by the City. The art must be accessible to the public, created with and for the public, and be installed or found only on public property.
When selecting art, the commission’s mission is to appeal to the masses, avoid controversial art and allow the artist to have creative rein.
Ullestad says public art helps develop a sense of community among residents, resulting in a sense of pride in the diversity and culture of where folks choose to live, work or play. Art enriches everyday experiences.
“What is life without art? Very plain, in my opinion,” says Ullestad. “When a city provides places and spaces that are enhanced by public art, it stimulates introspection as to how everyone is connected in their identity as a member of a community, yet valued as an individual with a unique perspective and insights to share. Public art is simply another way to ‘enjoy the everyday’ in West Des Moines.”
Source: Jordan Creek Living June 2022; by Jackie Wilson
Spreading a little sunshine: Indianola
KAMIE HAYNES
When Gary and Kamie Haynes bought the new location for Lula Belle on the Indianola Square, they knew the exterior needed several repairs and a new paint job. Kamie had the vision to do something bright and eye-catching that would make people smile.
“I love bright colors, flowers, sunshine… and dogs,” she says. “These were all important elements for me to incorporate.”
Kamie consulted local artist Megan Shipley. They discussed incorporating all the things on her list: a red/gold flower to represent Simpson College; a polka dot heart to represent her shopping bags; her dog; and a spot on the mural where people could take their dog photos, too.
The project took just a couple of weeks to complete, and Kamie was so pleased that she had Megan paint the back of her building, too.
“The mural makes me smile every day,” says Kamie. “So many people have told me how much they love to drive around the corner and see it. We can all use a little sunshine and something to make us smile.”
Source: Indianola Living June 2022; by Becky Kolosik
Library Open Book Nook: Winterset
DAVID HARGROVE
In 2018, the “Open Book Nook” was installed on the south side of the Winterset Public Library. The nook includes four shaded seating structures with inscriptions, constructed of teak wood and ornamental iron. Inscribed passages highlight local historical connections to the Underground Railroad, George Washington Carver, John Wayne and more.
“The piece is uniquely designed for our outdoor setting, and with its proximity to Madison County’s beautiful Monumental Park, we have a beautiful and welcoming public space,” says Library Director David Hargrove.
Public art in general, Hargrove believes, has the power to bring people together.
“Public art reflects understanding and appreciation of a common, public culture that we all share in,” Hargrove says. “At the public library, our space should reflect that. And, at the local level, despite the diversity and differences out there in today’s world, there’s also a lot of great work being done to build our sense of community. The Open Book Nook is a spatial and visual celebration of the work that brings us together.”
Source: Winterset Living June 2022; by Lindsey Giardino
Accessible arts festival: Waukee
JENN HOFFMAN
Arts in the City of Waukee took root in 2004, when the Waukee Area Arts Council formed. In 2015, the council hosted the first Waukee Arts Festival featuring 23 artists.
In subsequent years, the festival has attracted nearly 100 artists per year with thousands of attendees for the now two-day event. Artists have praised the Waukee festival, billed as one of the Midwest’s largest.
“Our biggest compliment is that Waukee’s festival is accessible. At the Des Moines Arts Festival, most people can’t afford the work,” says Jenn Hoffman, president of the Waukee Area Arts Council. “Many times, the artists are not local. A lot more people buy art at our festival, with a variety of price points.”
Hoffman joined the board in 2014 and became president in 2020. With a degree in art education, serving on the board allows her to stay involved in art. She says she is excited for the City’s plans to install art.
“Waukee doesn’t have a lot of public art — yet. We’re working towards that and hoping to bring the community together and get involved in purchasing art for the city,” she says.
Source: Waukee Living June 2022; by Jackie Wilson
