Chelsea, MA

AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2019

Project Category: Public art installations

Description: With the addition of public art, a block of Division Street became a welcoming, safe passageway through downtown Chelsea for pedestrians and cyclists. Community members created 25 pieces of art to adorn the street. Artists painted three full-scale murals, including one created alongside students from a local school, as well as several mini murals. Local older adults also installed art panels. To improve mobility, the City added new sidewalks and repaved the roadway. This project spurred local artists and creatives to form a network and increased support for public art among local property owners. Project organizers say its success represents an important first step to link the heart of downtown with Chelsea's waterfront.

Minot, ND

AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2020

Project Category: Public art installations

Description: To increase vibrancy and walkability in Minot's downtown, the city's Downtown Business and Professional Association sponsored three new downtown wall murals, each created by different local artists. To encourage passersby to interact with the murals, the artists hid depictions of objects in each mural's imagery, challenging onlookers to search for elements that seem out of place in the painting's subject matter. The association worked with local businesses to acquire materials, such as paint, brushes and cleaning supplies, for the project. Each mural adorns the wall of a different local business. Over the years, Minot has become known in recent years for its assortment of colorful, creative street art -- an online tourist guide helps visitors find murals throughout town.

Mount Sterling, KY

AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2024

Project Category: Public art installations

Description: Downtown Mt. Sterling lacked accessible green space, leaving older adults isolated and without safe outdoor options. Gateway Regional Arts Center turned a vacant lot into a Sculpture Garden with ADA-compliant paths, benches and vibrant plantings. Participants helped install sculptures and greenery, and a ribbon-cutting event marked the opening of this inviting space. The garden now offers a permanent oasis for relaxation and social connection, reducing isolation and boosting mental well-being. Plans for art classes, chair yoga and gardening workshops will keep the space active and expand its role in community life.

Project description was created using generative AI and then reviewed for accuracy.