A MESSSAGE FROM THE PRESIDENT
It started with a small group who wanted to share history, art and the creative nature as well as boost the economy of Hot Springs. It grew into the ‘Oasis of Art’, went to the state level, and because of the death of major supporters and lack of local support never came to fruition. What became of the idea translated into a small group with a mission of promoting, funding, and managing projects for the long-term expansion of the fine arts, architectural arts, and cultural heritage of Hot Springs and Fall River County...the Cultural Development Organization (CDO).
In 2006 the small group formed this non-profit organization, the CDO, and began the transformation of buildings in Hot Springs to the canvases for public art: murals. Today you see how private donors, business owners and the public work together to provide these cultural experiences. Mural art – where history becomes public art. As a 501 (c) 3 non-profit, you can see where your money goes - strokes of paint for all to enjoy! How does it happen? Our annual Evening of Wine and Roses event is the one fundraiser we conduct each year – with a different theme each year and generous donor funds are raised for each mural. In 2018 we will partner with others to create some new funding sources. Businesses offer their buildings as canvasses for the mural. And the partnership begins. An event leads to donations leads to a canvas for an artist and history comes alive. Each of the murals has a name documenting history, each mural invites the public to participate in the history and culture of Hot Springs. We invite you to visit the murals, to think about the scene and participate in the experience provided by public art. We also invite you to participate with us as a 'friend' (helping with events or fundraisers) or as a board member. Email us at cdohotsprings2006@gmail.com if you are interested in assisting us in any way! -Diane Gross |
The newest mural is being created by artist Kelli Juhl with a focus on the lighthouse and verse of the E-Free church above, the iconic mammoth eyeing the warm water which lead to its demise, some historic structures in Hot Springs with many colorful hot air balloons from our local balloonists. This year Kelli is painting all but the historic structures. As with many of our murals, the art continues to evolve over a few years.
What's it called - the name of the mural? How about you give us the ideas - let's make it a contest.
This art piece like all the other murals come about by the generosity of you, the public. Your donations and attendance at fundraisers makes this happen. Balloonists from our local area have donated many hours to provide tethered hot air balloon rides and other fundraisers to support this mural. We are still short of the $ goal so watch for additional fundraisers - especially as we get close to the Hot Air Balloon Festival later in August! |
LINKS
Hot Springs Chamber of Commerce
City of Hot Springs Fall River Pioneer Museum SHEDCO Evans Flammond Chautauqua Artisans Western Horizons Hot Air Balloons The Mammoth Site In memory of
|