Bench Project (III)

Nine more benches are added to Santa Rosa Bench project! This will bring the total to 51 benches. I found at least 6 more benches but I still need to take a picture of them so I can add them to the slideshow. I was pleasant surprised whenI got an email this week from the new Executive Director of ArtStart, Lise Carlson. She had great news: ArtStart will be making new benches this summer! I really love the work that ArtStart is doing for the city of Santa Rosa. They are not only involved with the art benches but several artists made some pretty cool murals throughout Santa Rosa.

For those who are visiting Santa Rosa and want to see the benches up close and personal I uploaded the benches to a Google webalbum including a map of where to find these benches! Just follow this link: Santa Rosa Art Benches. Not all benches are visible yet but I’m working on it…

For those not familiar with ArtStart:

Artstart is an award-winning, privately incorporated 501(c)3 non-profit educational arts organization serving all of Sonoma County. Our mission is to provide mentoring and a stimulating work experience for talented art Apprentices, while creating inspiring public art for the community.

Young artists compete for Apprentice artist positions through a juried process. Selected Apprentice artists work under the mentoring guidance of professional artists who serve as powerful role models and help the Apprentice experience art as a realistic profession. Artstart alumni also have opportunities to mentor younger Apprentice artists.

Artstart is financed by public funds, grants, private donations, and commissions. We also receive generous sponsorship and help from the City of Santa Rosa’s Recreation and Parks Department.

I might as well post the ArtStart 2008 Summer Program:

Mar 1 - Apr 15: Application Portfolio Submissions
April 15: Application Portfolio Deadline
June 8: Art House Welcome Party
June 16: Summer Program Begins
July 18: Summer Program Ends
July 19: Closing Reception and Project Party 5-7 pm

2008 Artstart Events Calendar

March 25: Spaghetti Western Fundraiser at Monroe Hall
Sept: Annual Art and Chair Auction