Hope Jordan, Nederland DDA. Thank you to everyone that sent Hope Jordan an email (ndda.ed@gmail.com) or attended the last Nederland Downtown Development Authority (NDDA) meeting, regarding community interest in Public Art in Nederland.

A few months ago a local artist approached the NDDA and asked if he could join a local Art Committee. While the NDDA has a Beautification Committee, one focused in Public Art does not exist. The conversation grew in interest and other talented artists and business leaders joined the conversation. By this time, the NDDA surveyed district business owners to see if they supported a creative endeavor.

Through December and January the NDDA learned more about the economic benefits of Public Art in business districts. Studies also suggested that aesthetic contributions to a community were notable and that more funding is available to communities implementing public art. In January the NDDA board approved further discussions on the topic and supported the creation of an Art Committee. The NDDA board requested that the committee be made up of area business leaders, residents, artists, community members and two NDDA board members.

During our February 11, 2020, board meeting, the NDDA board will consider amending their budget to include funds for developing an Art Plan. In the meantime the NDDA seeks business leaders and community members who are willing to create an art committee and interested in collaborating on a Nederland Art Plan. 

Are you interested in Nederland Public Art? Do you see Public Art as a benefit to the local economy? Would you also be interested in an informal meeting before February 11, 2020, to toss around Public Art ideas? A casual mix and mingle at a local restaurant or coffee shop?

Please feel free to reach out to Hope Jordan to discuss Public Art in Nederland. My email is ndda.ed@gmail.com. The board would like to hear your ideas, see your artwork, and keep you posted on any new developments. 

If you are interested in sitting on a committee,  please share the  evenings during the week when you are most likely available. In lieu of work schedules, formal meetings typically begin at 6p.m. and do not last longer than two hours. 

Thank you for your time and consideration.

(Originally published in the January 23, 2020, print edition of The Mountain-Ear.)