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 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 |