ARS Arts and Culture Center unveils a new public art mural
Downtown Benton Harbor just got a little bit brighter. On July 13 ARS Arts and Culture Center unveils a new public art mural from artist Ari Nadine Waters, an ARS Arts and Culture Center alumnus and recent graduate of Interlochen, who worked with Professional Muralist, Kim Wood, as part of the ARS continuing education program that gives opportunities to young artists.
The 8-foot by 12-foot mural is located at 147 5th St., in the heart of the Benton Harbor Arts District. A positive pop culture image emblazoned the mural, which was painted as a backdrop for local visitors to enjoy when they visit the arts district.
“I was honored to have the opportunity to create this work for Benton Harbor,” Waters said in a news release.
Then added, “It’s one of my beliefs that art is best made through cultural & community efforts, and thanks to Anna Russo Sieber and ARS Arts and Culture I was able to participate in this project, which is a perfect opportunity to show that in action”
The unveiling of Waters' mural is the latest collaboration between ARS Arts and Culture and the City of Benton Harbor's 14 year history of groundbreaking public art projects. With the recent Richard Hunt Memorial held at ARS Gallery and the first phase of the 2024 Summer Arts Camp just completed, ARS continues to lead the Benton Harbor Art scene through creative programming for all ages.
In conjunction with the unveiling of the mural on July 13, ARS will celebrate its 14th Anniversary with cake, refreshments, music, and a pop-up student art exhibition not to be missed, featuring Bella Alimenti, Gabriela Damiecka, and Ari Nadine Waters, from 4-6pm. Currently on view in the gallery is ENCORA, with multi-media works by Emma Bass, Amelia Briske, Ara Lucia, Nektaria Mattheos, and Emma Neuser.
ARS has additional arts education programs, public art and artists coming this fall to foster more inspirational experiences in Benton Harbor.
