Orlando Mayor Buddy Dyer and the City of Orlando have announced a call for up to 20 local artists to participate in the "Art Pollination: Building Food Justice through Creativity" public art project. This initiative aims to address food insecurity, a significant issue in the region. The project is supported by a $1 million grant from the Bloomberg Philanthropies Public Art Challenge, which encourages collaboration between mayors, residents, and artists on civic issues.
The city has appointed nationally renowned artist Juan William Chávez as the lead artist for this endeavor. Local artists selected will work alongside Chávez and another juried artist yet to be announced. Their work will be showcased along the Orlando Urban Trail, at community centers, food event sites, urban billboards, and various exhibitions including those at Downtown Arts District’s CityArts venue and City Hall Terrace Gallery.
Mayor Buddy Dyer emphasized the importance of local artists in this initiative: “For years, we’ve witnessed how the work of our local artists brings people together, strengthens our community, and helps create the unique quality of life we enjoy throughout our City and our entire region.” He added that involving local talent was central to their application for the Bloomberg Public Art Challenge.
The "Art Pollination" project is a collaborative effort with several local nonprofits such as Black Bee Honey, 4Roots, Hebni Nutrition Consultants, Ideas for Us-Fleet Farming, Second Harvest Food Bank of Central Florida, and UF/IFAS Orange County.
Artists interested in participating can apply online until January 13, 2025. Selected participants will be announced later that month. The project's development will span over 12 months with public art installations expected to launch in early 2025.
Further details about participation can be obtained by contacting Flynn Dobbs at Flynn.Dobbs@orlando.gov or calling 689-262-1712.
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