Arts & Entertainment
Public Arts Initiative Clears Riverdale Park Council
The town could see new artwork go up in public spaces later this year, with Beale Circle as a possible first location.
Riverdale Park residents may see more murals, sculptures, and paintings around the neighborhood soon following the town's approval of a public art initiative.
The project—a joint venture between Riverdale Park Town Council, the Riverdale Park Arts Council, and the Hyattsville Community Development Corporation—aims to place art installations at three to five locations around town, with further expansion possible in the future.
Councilman Jonathan Ebbeler (Ward 1) praised the measure, which passed the town council on March 4.
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“As the town of Riverdale Park continues to grow and evolve we need to define who we are and how we fit in with out surrounding municipalities,” Ebbeler said in an email. “Through this and other efforts we are trying to create a buzz and energy around the DC Metro that Riverdale Park is the place to move into."
One of the first installations will likely be at the corner of Beale Circle and East-West Highway, Ebbeler said. Artwork could start going up by fiscal year 2014, which begins on July 1.
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The project is expected to rely on a mix of donations to RPAC/HCDC and funding from the town's FY13 and FY14 budgets.
"I believe a blend of public and private financing creates the most successful operational environment that mitigates the impacts of government revenue shortfalls or economic downturns," said Ebbeler, who has already donated $5,000 dollars himself in support of the project.
Ebbeler noted that the HCDC is reaching out to artists for input and to advertise the opportunities available through the project.
The organization has shepherded other works of public art in the past, including the "Birdwatcher's View" sculpture Street and a mosaic bench outside of Franklin's Brewery. (View a longer list here.)
The HCDC serves a variety of functions, from bolstering local arts and entertainment offerings to fostering economic development.
“We’re an organization that has a mission of revitalization and to … extend and enhance what the community wants to do,” said HCDC Director Stuart Eisenberg.
By combining town money with grants and donations, Eisenberg said he was optimistic that Riverdale Park can accomplish its vision for the arts.