Four Philly projects awarded ArtPlace America grants

Of the 54 creative placemaking projects awarded 2013-2014 ArtPlace America grants today, four went to Philly organizations planning to use art as a tool to activate public spaces and arts-based community development. Here are Philly’s four winners in their respective categories: 

Using Art to Connect and Animate Communities

Enliven the 37th Street Pedestrian Walkway: Department of Making + Doing won $150,000 to enliven the 37th Street pedestrian walkway in ways that express the “creative production” of the partner organizaitons – Breadboard, Hacktory, Public Workshop and NextFab – at the University City Science Center.

Using Art to Spark Redevelopment

Penn’s Landing River Stage: Delaware River Waterfront Corporation was awarded $310,000 to turn the Penn’s Landing Boat Basin into a waterfront “River Stage” to enliven this public space through cultural activities.

FringeArts Plaza: FringeArts was granted $400,000 to build a plaza and performance space outside its new headquarters across from the Race Street Pier.

Using Art to Develop Civic Brand Stories

Destination Frankford: The Philadelphia City Planning Commission was awarded $335,150 to promote Frankford’s creative assets through artistic signage and street furniture, a storefront space for artists, and an arts-related marketing campaign.