When one considers the concept of community-based art, it is
through the lens of the value of arts beyond merely aesthetics. One notable vehicle that can be the
impetus for community-based art is the community arts council. These organizations can provide a
vision of the arts that moves beyond pretty pictures into the realm of
transformation.
The
article by Maryo Ewell (2000) traces the history of community arts councils
from their infancy over 60 years ago to their entrance into the dawning 21st
century. One of the first
developments in the gestation of community-based arts councils was the Village
Improvement movement of the 19th century, which was committed to
recapturing a sense of community through a concern for aesthetics. Ewell (2000) goes into considerable
detail in describing foundational stories and key individuals that led the arts
council movement from gestation to birth in Winston-Salem, when local citizens
banded together in an effort to consider the arts and how it can benefit the needs
of the community. She continues to
trace the history of this vital arts organization as it evolved along with the
evolution of the global society, addressing issues such as multiculturalism,
environmentalism, globalization, social justice, diversity, and economic
transformation.
In
order to understand the current role of community arts councils, it is
essential to understand the history behind them. Ewell’s (2000) research allows us to explore the
significance of a community arts council’s role in providing arts movements
with a community emphasis, as well as, community movements with an arts
emphasis. This shared
history will inform and stimulate those interested in the field of community
revitalization through the arts as they compel the community to see the value
of the arts beyond aesthetics.
It
is clear to see how arts councils have moved beyond merely aesthetics by taking
a look at this article, Art transforms community in Winnipeg, written about the With Art program instigated by the
Winnipeg Arts Council that matches artists with community groups to tackle
important issues within communities.
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