Narrative

The Outdoor Arts Experience (OAE) was an exhibition of outdoor art at 10 sites across Jamestown, Rhode Island in 2020. Conceived by the Jamestown Arts Center in celebration of their 10th anniversary, the OAE offered positive works of art, outdoors, for our community’s enjoyment and sustenance during a year where gathering together to enjoy art or events might otherwise be impossible.

Location partnerships for the 2020 Outdoor Arts Experience included town properties (municipal grounds, schools, town parks), historical sites, state parks, and various community and business properties located in Jamestown. In partnering with such organizations in town, the OAE celebrated our incredible natural resources and environment, promoted civic engagement, and created awareness of properties of historical significance. In selecting artworks, a selection panel was utilized in which representatives from the JAC, partner organizations, the arts community and the community at large served on the panel. A national Request for Proposals garnered 109 artworks submitted, from which the panel ultimately designated 11 finalists. The public was invited to vote for favorites through a People’s Choice ballot.

The Outdoor Arts Experience initiative seeks to strengthen partnerships between the JAC and other community organizations, and encourage viewers to seek out artworks at unique locations around town. Through this arts-driven journey, the OAE encourages viewers to explore and appreciate various public and historical sites in Jamestown. Site-specific events, arts education opportunities, programs and school field trips are an integral part of the OAE.

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Major support for the 2020 Outdoor Arts Experience provided by: