A filmmaker, a quilter + a comedian walk into a city government building…
No, this isn’t the opening line of a joke.
This has been happening frequently throughout the course of the past year thanks to the city’s Civic Artist in Residency program. We actually introduced you to this program back in November.
Here’s a quick refresher — essentially, three local artists have been collaborating with three different city government departments — Environmental Quality + Public Works, Finance, and Social Services.
“The goal of the program was to find engaging ways to help citizens learn about government operations + unstick aspects of work within local government,” said Megan Gulla, the Director of Programs at CivicLex.
Project Developments
Tony Gilmore | Filmmaker | Department of Environmental Quality + Public Works
Tony has designed a board game called “The Living City.” The game allows players to strategize about real-world issues that arise in city government.
Department of Finance
Hannah has been working on a series of quilts with graphics that explain how the city is spending its money in different ways.Pro tip: These quilts will be on display at the Pam Miller Downtown Arts Center from August-October.
Debra Faulk | Comedian + Actress | Department of Social Services
Debra has been leading comedy + improv workshops with Lexingtonians and city employees to help strengthen the community bond.
Get involved
Now that the year-long program is coming to a close, the artists are ready to showcase their work to the community + you’re invited to the party.
CivicLex Artist in Residency Showcase | Fri., July 15 | 5-8 p.m. | Pam Miller Downtown Arts Center, 141 E. Main St. | Free | Meet the artists who have been working with local government for the past year — ask questions + get a sneak peek of their work.