Upcoming public art exhibit first billed as first-of-its-kind in CT seeks photos

An upcoming public art exhibit is being billed as the first of its kind in Connecticut.

The Greater Hartford Arts Council has announced the creation of The Art Star Photo Mosaic Mural . The project is a 400-square-foot public art installation, supported by Shelbourne Global Solutions and LAZ Parking , which will be unveiled on Pearl Street in Hartford next to the Gold Building in early December.

The art project is billed the state’s first and only crowd-sourced photo mosaic mural.

“We are thrilled to give everyday people the opportunity to get involved in transforming the arts in our region,” said Rev. Dr. Shelley Best, CEO of the Greater Hartford Arts Council. “Not only will you shine as an Art Star by securing your spot in the state’s only photo mosaic mural, but this crowd-sourced approach democratizes the funding of the arts so that you can directly impact the arts ecosystem here in our local community.”

The mural is designed by local artist Ellis Echevarria; it will be comprised of thousands of images from local “Art Stars,” including area businesses, individuals, and supporters of the arts, according to organizers.  Submitting a photo requires a one-time donation; individuals or companies can become an Art Star and contribute a photo to be included in the 20 by 20 foot mural, according to the GHAC

The mosaic will also be an interactive digital experience, accessible online, and allowing viewers worldwide to explore the individual images and stories that make it up, according to the GHAC.

“As an embodiment of the city’s creativity, diversity, and communal spirit, this initiative underscores the importance of our collective support for the arts in Greater Hartford,” the GHAC said in a statement.

“Beyond creating Hartford’s largest crowd-sourced public art installation, 100% of Art Star’s contributions benefit the vibrancy and sustainability of our local arts ecosystem, from creating jobs for artists to enriching our community with festivals, exhibits, and public art installations,” the GHAC said.

Donations to be included in the mural are $200 for individuals and $700 for companies. Those who upload a photo can include a short caption that will be displayed in the online mosaic version when the photo is clicked on, according to the GHAC.

For more information and to participate in the Art Star Photo Mosaic Mural, visit https://letsgoarts.org/mosaic