Calling all artists: Rail Trail Committee seeks muralists
— Photo from the Mohawk Hudson Land Conservancy
An ART Mural will grace this blank facade at Adams Street and Hudson Avenue in Delmar. ART stands for Art on the Rail Trail. Applications from artists are being accepted through July 31 with the mural to be completed by mid-October.
BETHLEHEM — In late 2016, a group of Bethlehem community members gathered, inspired by the idea of creating public works of art along the Albany County Helderberg-Hudson Rail Trail. Forming a volunteer committee, Art on the Rail Trail, known as ART, these citizens have spent the past eight months working steadily, receiving approval from the Mohawk Hudson Land Conservancy, as well as from the Bethlehem Town Board, to implement this public art project.
ART identifies several benefits of creating public art along the rail trail, including: improved quality of life, beautifying the trail during all seasons, and a sense of community ownership. The first proposed art installation is a mural on the corner of Adams Street and Hudson Avenue in Delmar.
The members of ART have been reaching out to local businesses and residents, building sponsorships, community support, and public awareness for the project. Now, the committee is ready to hire an artist to paint the mural, and has posted a Call for Artists with the Arts Center of the Capital Region.
On June 29, from 6 to 7 p.m., an open house will be held at 90 Adams Street for interested applicants. ART welcomes all artists who apply, but is specifically interested in those who have experience in public art, mosaics, and murals. The group is hoping to hire an artist who lives in the Capital Region in an effort to support local community members.
ART is particularly interested in proposals which incorporate the themes of connectivity and movement. Applications are due by July 31 at 11:59 p.m., and must be submitted through The Arts Center of the Capital Region’s website. Applicants may also find application instructions by visiting the Mohawk Hudson Land Conservancy’s website or by visiting https://tinyurl.com/rail-trail-delmar.
Throughout the month of August, up to three finalists will be selected and a public presentation will be made. The committee is prioritizing transparency in the selection process, welcoming community members to voice opinions on the different proposals. By mid-October, the mural will be completed, and there will be a mural unveiling ceremony.