Public Art Commission Calls All Artists For “Art On The Bench”

Hickory – Calling all artists! The City of Hickory’s Public Art Commission (PAC) is seeking artists to paint three new benches for its popular “Art on the Bench” project.

Started in 2008, the “Art on the Bench” project enlists local artists to design and paint benches for placement at bus stops, parks, and other public locations around the city. There are currently 67 public art benches placed throughout Hickory.

Interested artists must submit a completed proposal kit, which is available online at www.hickorync.gov/content/public-art-commission, by 5 p.m. on January 31, 2019. The PAC will review proposals on February 13, 2019. Successful applicants will be asked to paint one steel bench and will receive a $500 stipend for painting and supplies.

The Public Art Commission, an advisory group to the Hickory City Council, works to integrate art into public spaces to create a visual sense of the community. Hickory’s Public Art Collection is comprised of over 100 works of art, including paintings, sculptures, murals, and benches. A designated Art Walk meanders through Downtown Hickory and features many of the works.

To learn more about the Public Art Commission, visit http://www.hickorync.gov/content/public-art-commission. For questions about the “Art on the Bench” project, please contact PAC liaison, Sarah Greene, at (828) 261-2275 or via email at [email protected].

PHOTO: Bench located at McComb Park. “Fly Free” by artist Michelle Major.