By Jennifer Sadler

Public art is generally accepted as both socially and economically beneficial by communities throughout the world. One of the best things about traveling to a big city is that you get the chance to see works of art that are an integral part of the urban fabric—statues of famous citizens, memorials, larger-than-life sculptures, temporary installations, colorful murals and more. Columbus is no exception. Public art has a rich history in Ohio’s capital city and has been created by some of the most talented artists in the world—many of them local artists who have a deep appreciation for their city. Other work is created by community groups and people of all ages with an interest in creating something beautiful that shows pride for their neighborhood. Art can be found in public libraries, community centers, shopping malls, on outside walls of privately owned businesses, COTA buses, art schools, universities, the statehouse and buildings downtown—even at police and fire stations.

Any debate concerning public art stimulates lively discussion regarding the advantages and importance it can hold for a city. Some argue that the value of public art isn’t just about the art.  It's also about investing in interconnected communities that are economically stronger, safer, and have stronger relationships between neighbors fostering a sense of ownership over the public and private property, and business sectors of a neighborhood.

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OHIO CELEBRATES NATIONAL ARTS & HUMANITIES MONTH THROUGHOUT OCTOBER

The Greater Columbus Arts Council joins hundreds of arts organizations and communities around the state and nation in celebrating National Arts & Humanities Month (NAHM) throughout October. Initiated in 1993 and coordinated by Americans for the Arts, NAHM is the largest annual celebration of the arts and humanities in the nation. From arts center open houses to mayoral proclamations to banners and media coverage, communities across the United States join together to recognize the importance of arts and culture in our daily lives.

The month-long celebration will kick off this week on October 4 at the Ohio Statehouse with a reading of Governor John Kasich’s proclamation marking October as Arts and Humanities Month throughout Ohio, followed by a performance by acclaimed local bluegrass band, Grassahol.

Several events will be held in conjunction with the NAHM throughout Columbus and central Ohio.

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SNEAK PEEK

Haunted Ship Presented by Santa Maria Columbus

Every October the Santa Maria Ship Museum becomes the Haunted Pirate Ship. The dock is inhabited by pirates in all sizes and shapes and a cemetery holds the ones who came before. Your pirate tour guide will introduce you to Captain Booney as he steps out of a storybook and tells the tale of his ill- fated crew. Heads may roll, spiders may talk and ghosts and skeletons will “shiver your timbers” as you take a tour of the haunted vessel. This family friendly adventure guarantees a “little boo” for everyone.

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Dublin Arts Council and DownSyndrome Achieves Present Shifting Perspectives

Photographs can evoke emotional responses that transcend human speech and the written word. Such is the impact of Shifting Perspectives, a poignant photography exhibition that provides insight into the joy and wonder of what it is to be human – and living with Down syndrome.  A selection of photographs, taken over a nine-year period, depicts the everyday interactions of people of all ages who are living with Down Syndrome.

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HighBall Halloween Presented by the Short North Arts District

Columbus' premier Halloween extravaganza puts DESIGN center stage.  A cross between Carnivale and Mardi Gras with a pinch of Halloween and a healthy splash of Short North spirit.  In four short years, HighBall has become one of the most talked about Halloween events in the Midwest.  The key to its success has been the event's focus on "the art of design and masquerade." 

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