Expanding the Artists Role in Urban Placemaking and Design

Join us for a moderated discussion between three panelists on placemaking and the Arts! Explore ideas and examples of how the involvement of Artists has contributed to the transformation and development of vibrant public places.

(Image by Jerry Shapins)

Moderator: Bettina Swigger.

Panelists: Taishya Adams, Jerry Shapins, Betsy Hawley, Maputo Mensah.

Professional Artists are well equipped, through their professional skills for art making and creative thinking, to support in the planning and development of loved public places. However, Artists are an often undervalued asset in addressing complex problems and needs related to urban infrastructure. This event will discuss how collaboration with Artists can enhance a city's identity, inform public perceptions, and strengthen a city's ability to creatively adapt public processes.

We are excited to welcome the following Panelists: Taishya Adams (Boulder City Council, CEO of Mukuyu Collective), Jerry Shapins (Artist and Advocate), Betsy Hawley (RIOS - Experience Design), and Maputo Mensah (CU College of Music - Director of the West African Highlife Ensembe, Creative Director of Logi Ligi Drum and Dance Troupe, Founder of the Apke Cultural Center). This discussion will be moderated by Bettina Swigger (CEO of Downtown Boulder Partnership), and will take place at the Boulder Chamber, where the work of Jerry Shapins is currently on display; this exhibition is part of North Boulder Art Districts Art + Place Program. Thank you to the City of Boulder Office of Arts and Culture, for their sponsorship of this BCAA Business of Arts Program.