In the heart of Altoona, a vibrant artistic endeavor is unfolding, transforming the once-ordinary Gable's building into a canvas of creativity. This initiative, a collaboration between the Altoona Blair County Development Corp., the city, ArtsAltoona, and the Mirror, is not just about enhancing the aesthetics of downtown; it's a celebration of the community's artistic spirit and a nod to the nation's 250th birthday. What makes this project particularly fascinating is the diverse range of artists and their unique interpretations, each bringing their own slice of Altoona's culture and history to life on these panels. From the pure and innocent scenes of Elizabeth Garber to the iconic local objects captured by Thad Dalby, the murals are a testament to the power of art in bringing people together and preserving local heritage.
One thing that immediately stands out is the sheer talent and passion of the artists involved. Elizabeth Garber, for instance, comes from an artistic family and has always been drawn to the creative process. Her decision to participate in the Gable's panel painting contest was a natural extension of her artistic journey, which began in earnest in 2019. Garber's work, a replication of a personal, intimate moment, is a powerful reminder of the emotional impact art can have on individuals and communities. What many people don't realize is that art, in its many forms, has the ability to transport us to different worlds, evoke strong emotions, and even heal. It's a form of expression that transcends language and culture, making it a universal language of the human experience.
Thad Dalby, another talented artist, brings a unique perspective to the project. His work, a montage of local iconic objects, is a celebration of Altoona's rich history and culture. The K4 steam locomotive, the Cathedral of the Blessed Sacrament, the Edith Davis Eve Memorial Chapel at Penn State Altoona, Baker Mansion, and the Mishler Theater are all part of the tapestry that makes Altoona special. Dalby's use of outdoor acrylic paint, which dries fairly fast, allows him to work efficiently and bring his vision to life. His early encouragement, such as the positive feedback he received for drawing an orange sailboat as a kindergartner, has fueled his passion for visual art. In my opinion, this project is not just about creating beautiful murals; it's about preserving the essence of Altoona and sharing it with the world.
The process of selecting the artists was rigorous and fair. An eight-person committee ranked the applications, which included samples of past work and a brief explanation of the concept behind each proposal. The applications were stripped of identifying information to prevent bias, ensuring that the selection was based solely on the quality of the work and the concept. This level of professionalism and transparency is a testament to the commitment of the partnership to making the project a success. From my perspective, the fact that the partnership received almost 70 applications is a clear indication of the interest and talent in the local art community. It's a sign that Altoona is a place where creativity thrives and where people are eager to contribute to the beautification of their community.
The deadline for the artists to finish their work is the end of July, although the partnership is encouraging them to finish or at least be well on their way before Independence Day. This timing is strategic, ensuring that the panels will look good for the many visitors in July, including those that come to the YMCA race downtown on the Fourth and those that come for the visit of the Big Boy locomotive the following week. The partnership has also organized a panel-painting 'kickoff' in coordination with Levity Summer Fest, providing the artists with a supportive and inspiring environment to begin their work. This attention to detail and the effort to create a positive and collaborative atmosphere is a testament to the partnership's commitment to the success of the project.
The project is not just about the murals themselves; it's about the impact they will have on the community. The $1,000 award based on the opinions of a group of judges and a $1,000 award based on votes that can be cast on the Mirror website will not only recognize the talent of the artists but also celebrate the community's support for the arts. This aspect of the project is particularly important, as it highlights the role of art in bringing people together and fostering a sense of community. In my opinion, the fact that the project has generated so much interest and support is a clear indication of the community's commitment to the arts and its desire to see Altoona flourish as a cultural hub.
In conclusion, the Gable's building project is a testament to the power of art in transforming spaces and communities. It's a celebration of the talent and passion of the artists involved and a nod to the rich history and culture of Altoona. The murals are not just beautiful works of art; they are a reflection of the community's spirit and a celebration of its diversity. As the project unfolds, it will not only enhance the aesthetics of downtown but also leave a lasting impact on the hearts and minds of those who experience it. This is a project that truly embodies the spirit of collaboration, creativity, and community, and it's one that I believe will continue to inspire and delight for years to come.
