The city of Akron is encouraging residents to create pieces of art and display them in their front yards.
The “Art Blooms in Akron” community project, which kicked off Monday, is for residents of all ages and artistic abilities. The first 250 people who register by visiting www.Lock3Live.com/event/150 or calling 330-375-2877 will receive art supplies, instructions and a “My First Garden” packet of flower seeds to plant, thanks to support from the Akron Community Foundation’s Community Response Fund for Nonprofits.
Supplies also will include a sign board, yard stake and four crayons. Tips for artistic creations include focusing on something comforting, beautiful, hopeful or inspiring.
Participants should take a picture of their art and submit it to LJernigan@akronohio.gov by June 28 to be eligible to win prizes. Photos should be shared on social media using #ArtBloomsinAkron.
Also, 18 youth winners categorized from pre-K to high school seniors will be awarded gift certificates, memberships to the Akron Art Museum and Akron Children’s Museum, and bags of art supplies.
“We have faith in the resiliency and creativity of the citizens of Akron,” Mayor Dan Horrigan said in a prepared statement. “I am excited to see images and messages of hope throughout our community and to celebrate the talent here in Akron.”
Traci Buckner, executive director of the Akron Children’s Museum, said that “both children and adults benefit from the act of creative expression.”
“We believe everyone has an innate ability and desire to create” Buckner said.