8. The ELEMENT: Projects The Arts & Cultural Zoning District: The City of Rockford has designated a district where artists may set-up shop to live and work in the same house or building. The artist may hang out a shingle or sign without violating any city zoning laws. The ELEMENT worked closely with the Department of Community Development and the City Council in passing this important change in city codes. Realtors and developers have welcomed the district and now use the “Arts District” designation to market existing and renovated spaces. The Public Art & Design Plan: The ELEMENT is committed to improving the look, feel and quality of the public environment in Downtown Rockford. With two Public Art projects completed, it is time to take a more formal approach to public art and the design of public spaces. In-kind services are being provided by the SEC Group, an urban planning firm with a new office in Rockford. The planning process is just beginning and will incorporate participation by artists and community members. The scope of the plan has not been finalized but will include selecting sites for pubic art and beautification. The Rockford Park District is partnering with the ELEMENT in the development of the public art program that will guide site and art selection. Friday Night Flix: The ELEMENT is assisting RAVE in offering Friday Night Flix this summer in Davis Park. The ELEMENT acts as event manager in the already popular series of family blockbusters each Friday night June through August. The ELEMENT volunteers welcome patrons, assist with directions to concessions, restrooms, etc. The ELEMENT played a key role in conceiving the event, the selection of the movies and the creation of the programs before each show.
9. The ELEMENT: Projects Green Light Nights: Green Light Nights grew as a music series set on the newly renovated Main Street in Downtown Rockford with the assistance of The ELEMENT. The ELEMENT continues to work with the Green Light Night team to help it develop into a production group offering music and special events at a variety of venues in Downtown Rockford that will continue throughout the year. First Fridays: The first Friday of each month offers local art, music, shopping and dining in Downtown Rockford from 5 p.m. to midnight. A collaboration between WallBlank, Prairie Street Gallery and The ELEMENT to showcase the variety of art, dining, music and shopping experiences in downtown. First Fridays now include a monthly art opening at Kryptonite for the Emerging Artist group which will culminate in an award for the best artist at years end. Sunday in the Park: Davis Park/Founders Landing is the site for the new Sunday in the Park event that features musical performances by local and regional artists, handmade items at the Artisans Market, delicious food and drink from local establishments and special kid’s activities. RAVE and The ELEMENT joined together to offer this event on Sundays from June 20 through August 29. The Business of Art: A new dimension for The ELEMENT in 2010, The Business of Art will help artists learn how to become more profitable and marketable. The Business of Art project includes a number of programs including the Emerging Artist, the Music Project, a Virtual Arts Incubator, and developing the Video & Film Industry in the Rockford region. More successful artists will contribute significantly to making Rockford become a commercial and regional arts destination.
22. The Element: Change Creativity is thinking up new things , Innovation is doing new things . A powerful idea can kick around unused…for years , not because its merits are not recognized , but because nobody has assumed the responsibility for converting it from words into action . Ideas are useless, unless used . The proof of their value is only in their implementation Theodore Leavitt, from INC magazine
Editor's Notes
The CSA is up First for the Community Center --- Grant work with US Bank is underway “ Be” Mural an important start and laid ground work for future efforts with the City and the “team “ CD release party we hope for January 23 “pencil it in pending confirmation of performers
We have added artist – Welcome Christopher Simm & John McNamara ,kelle Marsais of Ignite
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