Last year colossal clogs, this year haunted hangings. The Downtown Albany Business Improvement District (BID) has announced that the 2013 Sculpture in the Streets exhibit will be titled: All Signs Point to Downtown.
History buffs and the public alike are thrilled that the 2013 Sculpture in the Streets artists will be commissioned to restore old retail signs, also referred to as ghost signs, on the sides of Downtown Albany’s historic buildings. Painting will take place between mid-April to mid-June before going on display whereupon the public will be able to participate in a free walking tour of the exhibit.
The signs created for Sculpture in the Streets play a key role in
retelling the story of downtown Albany as the commercial hub for the
Capital Region prior to the creation of suburban malls. It’s a reminder
that New York’s capital was once a bustling metropolis.
Sculpture in the Streets has been an annual event since 2005, drawing over 10,000 residents and visitors, and encouraging art education while highlighting the vibrancy of Downtown Albany.
“The notoriety of our Sculpture in the Streets program grows each year,” said Georgette Steffens, Executive Director Downtown Albany BID, “Last year’s exhibit took on a life of its own with the Dutch clogs each having a Facebook page where people could post pictures and videos interacting with the shoes. This year we believe that we have an award winning historic preservation program that will also be the start of attracting retail to Downtown.”
Now through April 12, 2013, the BID is accepting submissions from artists interested in participating in Downtown Albany’s Sculpture in the Streets. Artists in all stages of their careers are encouraged to apply, but must be able to free hand letters and pay close attention to detail and line work.
Do you know an artist who would be interested in applying? Please contact Kris Sigsby at 518.465.2143 x13 or you are interested in applying to be part of this amazing historical preservation project.
