Richmond Town Center Murals
History of the Murals
Back in 2017, when Radiate Art Space was just up and running as a community non-profit art space, we quickly realized that natural light was desirable if not necessary for creating art. We were determined to raise enough money to reinstall working windows where previous ones had been boarded up in the 100 + yr old Richmond Town Center. To that end, we fundraised with a “duck race” that had been a popular fundraiser for the Teen Center (RATC-Nest) located in our space before us. Although we raised over $1,000, the Selectboard asked that we put our plans on hold until the town had a firm plan for the future of this building. Years later, we are still on hold, but have been approved for two temporary windows due to ventilation issues during the COVID pandemic and the need for fresh air. Since that time, we have made lemons into lemonade by seeking permission to keep refreshing the windows with art. Radiate has now entered a formal agreement with the Town of Richmond Selectboard and is grateful to be granted the privilege to be curators of that window space until all of the windows are replaced.
Call for Submissions 2023!
The next round of the Town Center Murals will be based on the theme “Art and Nature.” Cicero said, “Art is born of the observation and investigation of nature.” Marc Chagall said, “ Great art picks up where nature ends.” What images come to mind when you read these quotes? Individuals or groups can submit an idea that fits with the theme of “art and nature” or ask to be a part of the process — you do not need to consider yourself an artist. There are 9 boarded-up windows on the ground floor of the building. Your idea can be a series based on that theme that will include all nine windows or just a subset. The Curator Committee will review the submissions and follow the guidelines outlined in the Mural Agreement with the Town of Richmond. Radiate Art Space will provide all materials and support to guide you or your group in the painting process which will happen in May 2023. To apply, you must fill out the online application found below or request a paper copy at Radiate Art Space, PO Box 383, Richmond. Submissions are due by March 18, 2023.