West Columbia and Beautification Foundation call for Art Project ideas

The West Columbia Beautification Foundation and City of West Columbia are asking for ideas for the “Art On State” Project.

The Central Carolina Community Foundation has awarded the West Columbia Beautification Foundation (WCBF) and the City of West Columbia a $31,125 Connected Communities Grant.

According to a release from the city, the Community Engagement Grant is to fund a beautification project that will transform a dumpster disaster into a community designed interactive public art garden. It will be in the public parking area adjacent to businesses on the 100 block of State Street.

The city and the WCBF is asking for input from residents, State Street business owners, and the West Columbia Beautification Foundation. From those suggestions, an exhibit for the interactive Art On State public art project will be selected.

Anyone with an idea and the ability to fabricate and install the public art may submit an application. Applications must be received before 5 p.m. on Sept. 23. A public meeting to view and discuss submitted ideas is scheduled for Oct. 5, (time and location to be determined).

After receiving public input, finalists will be presented to the West Columbia Beautification Foundation during its October meeting.

The winning project will be presented to West Columbia City Council for approval in October. Projects will be evaluated based on artistic merit and quality, intentionality of the artist, local significance, safety and durability, unrestricted public viewing, and installation and maintenance of the work.

More information and about the Art On State Project and project applications can be found at Click For More Art on State information