Bancroft:Bryant Public Art Dedication Join members of the Bancroft and Bryant neighborhoods as they celebrate public art at a reception hosted by the Office of Cultural Affairs and the Minneapolis Arts Commission on October 23, 2000. The sculpture features two stainless steel pillars exhibiting 72 tiles created by neighborhood residents: both young and old. A whimsical, bronze spiral connects the two towers allowing individuals to pass beneath on a walkway leading to the Phelps Recreation Center. The piece was inspired by the theme of togetherness and the bronze tiles present an excellent representation of community. Created by Artist Michael Bigger, a professor at the Minneapolis College of Art & Design, the arch is part of the Neighborhood Gateways Program. WHAT: Dedication of the Bancroft :Bryant Neighborhood Gateway; opening remarks by City Council Member Brian Herron; performance by the Bancroft School Taiko Drum Group; artwork by community children and youth; a video presentation of the sculpture construction process; appetizers by Taqueria Taco Blass and the Cookie Cart. WHEN: 6:00-7:30 p.m., Monday, October 23, 2000 WHO: The City of Minneapolis Office of Cultural Affairs and the Minneapolis Arts Commission. WHERE: Phelps Park by the sculpture, reception inside the Phelps Recreation Center, South Minneapolis (40th Street East and Chicago Avenue) The Neighborhood Gateway Program was established in 1992 to offer Minneapolis residents the opportunity to sponsor public art installations in their communities. Gateways are public art projects that hold some special meaning or significance, and build community spirit. The program was created to enhance the visual environment of the city and enrich the lives of those who view the work. Community groups apply to be Gateway sponsors and are awarded through a competitive selection process. Four neighborhoods are chosen annually, and each is allotted $50,000 to define the project, select an artist, and construct and install the work. Since it's inception, fifteen Gateway sites have been selected. Betsy Mowry Interim Public Arts Administrator City of Minneapolis Office of Cultural Affairs 612.673.3006
