We’re excited to share the winning entries of “Art for Hope” a public art project led by the Redevelopment Agency of Salt Lake City. Not only is it an opportunity to foster more authentic communities, but it helps sustain our local artists and the challenges they are facing with the pandemic.

Salt Lake City has a new addition to our growing public art scene – “Art for Hope”, 43 outdoor, large-scale artworks from 33 local artists are now on display at three properties in the Downtown, North Temple, and Sugar House neighborhoods.  The collections are also available for viewing at www.slcrda.com/artforhope, and will be shared on social media using the hashtag #ArtForHopeSLC.

Inspired by the need to bolster community strength amidst current local, national, and global challenges, Art for Hope SLC was launched by the RDA this summer when it called on Utah artists to submit original, digital artwork depicting messages of hope, resilience, and unity.

“At a time when traditional art galleries and events are closed, Art for Hope SLC is providing both an outdoor and virtual venue where local artists can showcase their work,” says Amy Fowler, Salt Lake City Council Member and RDA Board Chair. “This project has also infused local artists with $43,000 during a time when the arts and culture sector is experiencing great financial losses due to COVID-19.”

Local artists received $1,000 commissions for each work, which have been grouped into collections displayed at three vacant properties owned by the RDA currently being readied for redevelopment:

• 1500 W North Temple (north side of street, fence wrap)

• 255 S State Street (east side of street, fence wrap)

• 2234 S Highland Drive (blue building, wall installation)

Artists featured in the installations include: Alison Denyer, Aljay Fuimaono, Anastasia Bolinder, Ann Chen, Ash Lune, Aubri Tuero, August Martial, Bill Louis, Cara Jean Hall, Chris Peterson, Colleen Marshall, Corinne Humphrey, Elisabeth Bunker, Elizabeth Walsh, Gordon Schuit, Isabelle Ghabash, Jann Haworth, Jessica Wiarda, Jiyoun Lee-Lodge, Kelsey Anne Crnich, Kevin Bowen, Lenka Konopasek, Lindsay Frei, Maria Carla Genovesi, Maria Harman, Michaëlle Martial, Nathan Florence, Peter Apicella, Robyn Briggs, Sanila Math, Sawyer Stroud, Taryn Sommers, and Trent Call.

 The Redevelopment Agency of Salt Lake City (RDA) works to revitalize the City’s neighborhoods and business districts to improve livability, spark economic growth, and foster authentic communities. 

Including the Art for Hope SLC project, the RDA has invested more than $3.6 million into public art across the City over the past five decades.

More recently, the RDA was also responsible in driving the Granary District Murals – the project not only helped revitalize the area, but it also aimed to preserve its history, and attract more audiences that are hungry for inspiration.

Want to help support a local artist?  The Salt Lake City Arts Council has a list of available artists and muralists for your next project. 

We are proud to be part of the City’s arts programs and creative placemaking initiatives such as this mural project help promote surrounding reinvestment, but also supports our local artists at a time when they need it the most.