The 14-foot tall metal and glass sculpture in the Buffalo Street plaza was erected in April of 2021 and is one of several temporary and permanent art displays to appear in downtown Warsaw in recent years. Officials announced plans on Friday, May 20, for a temporary art display in the business district. InkFreeNews file photo.

By Dan Spalding
InkFreeNews

WARSAW – A new temporary art installation will be unveiled in downtown Warsaw in June.

The newest introduction of public art – a priority under Mayor Joe Thallemer – will include works from three area residents, including two who are students.

Unlike some of the previous temporary art displays set in Warsaw, the upcoming collection will not carry a strict theme or singular medium.

Nine pieces of art will be found in some of the flower boxes in the downtown business district. Some will be attached to buildings, said Suzie Light, representing the Warsaw Public Arts Commission.

The exhibits will feature metal sculptures and moveable murals that will be mounted on buildings, Light said.

The display is being organized by Warsaw Public Arts Commission with money from two funds held by Kosciusko County Community Foundation.

Initial plans were announced Friday, May 20, when the request to shift $9,000 in grant money was considered by the Warsaw Board of Public Works and Safety.

The exhibit will include nine pieces and remain on exhibit from mid-June to September, Light said.

All three artists are in the college-age range.

“We’re really excited to give those young, emerging artists an opportunity like this to display their work and enhance the quality of life of residents in the community,” said Justin Taylor, city planner, who spoke in favor of the program alongside Light and Paulette Davis.

Funding has come from two sources, but more is needed, Light said.

The board of works approved the transfer of $1,000 and $8,000 from two component funds operated by the Kosciusko County Community Foundation. One is the Be A Light Upon My Path fund. The other is the ArtFULLY Warsaw.

But Light said more money is needed to cover the costs for this summer’s exhibit and for another, larger project set for 2023.

Mayor Joe Thallemer said he hopes others will step forward to support the arts program financially.

Art is certainly not cheap, Thallemer said, but the public seems enamored with past displays.