BAYarts Illuminates Cleveland’s Resurgence

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“Make no little plans; they have no magic to stir men’s blood and probably themselves will not be realized. Make big plans; aim high in hope and work, remembering that a noble, logical plan once recorded will never die, but long after we are gone will be a living thing asserting itself with growing insistence. “

-Daniel H. Burnham, architect and developer of Cleveland’s civic center

 

Cleveland’s reputation can rarely catch a break. Our rivers are known to catch fire, our sports teams abandon their fans, we have less than predictable weather patterns and airlines don’t care to land their planes here anymore. But the last decade marks a paradigm shift for the city. As manufacturing jobs are creeping back into the city, so is Generation Y.

My generation, those in their twenties and thirties, are migrating back to the urban neighborhoods which used to be home to immigrants, the undereducated and the destitute. Young people are reclaiming this great city by creating small businesses, improving dilapidated houses, and patronizing small businesses and restaurants. We see value in our neighborhood mom-and-pop shops, and we understand the significance locally sourced food has on our economy. In fact the “farm-to-table” movement has become rather posh because of it’s sustainable qualities and it’s positive effect on the local farmer. Also, the new trend of urban farming has tilled the soil of plots of land which a decade ago held the remains of foreclosed homes.

 

Julie Cikra, Migration

Julie Cikra, Migration

 

Today high-end boutiques are filling vacant storefronts and derelict churches are being revived. Three-story TV screens mounted on abandoned buildings flash bright images of the contemporary apartments and stylish lofts that are being renovated within. This spike in affluent population has lead to the need of a grocer that can provide to Cleveland’s residents.

Urban sprawl has changed it’s path, and my paintings represent the gritty feel of a weathered city full of vitality and a resurgence of life. While unexceptional cities succumb to the test of time, only great cities endure. As architect Daniel Burnham said, Cleveland is a living thing asserting itself with growing insistence.

 

 

BAYarts Annual Juried Exhibition: October 10- November 6

Opening reception Oct 10th 7 – 9pm

Any medium, cash awards. Judges: John Nativio, Marsha Sweet.

Details and entry form: www.bayarts.net or eileen@bayarts.net

 

Julie Cikra “Migration” opens October 10 in the Dianne Boldman Education Gallery

 

 

BAYarts
28795 Lake Road
Bay Village, Ohio 44140

bayarts.net

440.871.6543

 

Fall hours

Mon – Sat 9 – 5