Dr. Joy Yang Jiao Neighborhood Bench Project

TITLE: Dr. Joy Yang Jiao Neighborhood Bench Project
ARTIST: Dr. Joy Yang Jiao
DATE: 2023
TYPE: Mural
MEDIUM: Paint
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ABOUT: The Midland Area Community Foundation selected fourteen artists to paint twelve benches and 2 picnic tables and transform them into usable murals in a move to beautify the downtown space and give the community an artistic voice. Artist Dr. Joy Yang Jiao gave an artist statement for the project, "​There is an “artist” in everyone of us. Although I pursue my career as an academic rather than an artist, I realize that art is rather a lens through which we view and interpret our world with all its beautiful elements.

The “Flying Apsaras” design is inspired by the ancient cave paintings in DunHuang, China, with a history of roughly 3000 years. The lotus flower symbolizes peace and harmony in various Asian cultures. This design is a celebration. It celebrates Midland as our inclusive “hometown” where all international cultures and heritages thrive harmoniously with the local cultures."

LOCATION: Midland Center For The Arts, 1801 W. St. Andrews Rd., Midland MI, 48640