Groups seek donations to bring public art to GR north side

GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. (WOOD) — Two groups are collaborating to bring public art to Grand Rapids’ north side through a crowdfunding campaign .

The Neighbors of Belknap Lookout and Lions & Rabbits Center for the Arts are working to raise $50,000 by Aug. 22 to fund the initiative. If the money is raised by then, the Michigan Economic Development Corporation’s Public Spaces Community Places program will match the funds raised through a grant.

“Public Art has the capability to transform blank spaces and invite people into a space to gather and spend time,” said MEDC Regional Development Managing Director Paula Holtz. “We are pleased to support and provide resources for this project through our Public Spaces Community Places program.”

The initiative hopes to help residents and visitors slow down and engage in spaces throughout the neighborhood through:

• 2 Murals at 1140 Monroe Ave and Artists Creating Together
• 5 Crosswalk Murals in the Creston Neighborhood of Grand Rapids
• Creston: After Dark Creative Market
• Michigan Street: After Dark Creative Market
• Creative Placemaking for the Plaza at the intersection of Coit Avenue NE, Quimby Street NE, and Plainfield Avenue
• Grand Rapids Parks Equipment and Installation Activations with Grand Rapids Parks and Recreation

Since the launch of the Public Spaces Community Places program, 385 projects have been successful in reaching their goal, with more than $14.8 million raised from 72,328 individual donors. MEDC said communities have a 97% success rate in achieving their goals and earning matching funds.

For details on the project and to donate, click here .

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