by Shawn Nowlin
One cannot tell the whole story of Roanoke without mentioning the numerous contributions that different demographics have made both historically and in recent years. The Star City is full of people with incredible stories, and some local organizations are doing their part to highlight such individuals.
The Roanoke Arts Commission and Roanoke Cultural Endowment have joined forces to explore how the power of the arts makes Roanoke a stronger community.
Anyone 18 and older can partake in the ‘IT’S HERE’ Portrait Call. This paid opportunity was created for locals to portray residents and business owners throughout the Star City. After participants identify a worthy person in the community, the next step is to conceive the project. The application process consists of proposing how the art would portray said individual and answering some additional questions.
“Subjects can be actively making the community better in many ways, including through the arts. They also could be using their creativity to build a business, improve a neighborhood or connect neighbors. More than one subject can absolutely be featured in a work,” Douglas Jackson, Roanoke’s Arts, and Cultural Coordinator, said.
He added, “We want to hear who inspires you. In addition to two-and three-dimensional visual art, the performing arts such as dance, drama, and musical composition are eligible and encouraged. Film and animation are also welcomed. Proposals can mix many art forms. People need not worry about challenging us with their particular and unique approach because we are totally game and open-minded.”
A diverse panel of volunteers on the Roanoke Arts Commission’s Collections Committee will choose the 40 artists to receive payment and produce their work. Artistic excellence and storytelling potential will factor heavily in the decision-making process.
In addition to being paid $500, every chosen adult will also be able to use their content to educate, celebrate and promote the community. Project officials say the plan is for the portraits to ultimately be shared in an exhibition at the Noel C. Taylor Municipal Building.
“No matter what form of art you choose, we’ll want an engaging representation to display to interest viewers and connect them to the work. The maximum size for visual representations is 24” by 36” Jackson said.
A timeline of the exhibition calendar is as follows: proposals due (July 12), selection panel meets (July 17), Roanoke Arts Commission approval (July 18), artist notification (July 19), invoices and draft images due (August 11), final work due at the Municipal Building (Sept. 8) and open reception prior to a city council meeting (Sept. 18)
For more information, contact douglas.jackson@roanokeva.gov or 540-853-5652.
