LEXINGTON, Ky. — A new innovation space on campus, The Cornerstone, has recently opened its doors, creating endless possibilities for students, faculty, and community members alike.
One of the most distinctive features of the new building is the 55-foot-tall, first of its kind in Lexington, exterior digital media wall standing tall for all to see. Wrapping the corner of South Limestone and Winslow Street, the media wall is strategically situated on one of the university’s most downtown and community-facing corners.
Seizing the opportunity to reflect and celebrate community, UK is making the call for artwork based on two themes:
Black Lives in the Bluegrass:
“In 2020, we have seen renewed public outcry against systemic racism and calls for social change. In cities and towns across the state, protesters have taken to the streets to assert that Black Lives Matter. This call seeks images that acknowledge the deep legacy of racism in our country; recognize the pain it inflicts upon our communities of color; protest systemic injustice and represent a desire for change; underscore Black liberation and joy, and celebrate the ongoing vital contributions of our Black and Brown citizens to live in the commonwealth. They may include but are not limited to photographs of protests, scans of posters, images of murals, portraits of Black leaders, and works that point to a more just future,” UK said.
Kentucky Confronting COVID-19:
During the global pandemic, Kentucky has rallied together to fight the disease, keep essential services available, and help our community stay strong. This open call seeks digital art that celebrates the contributions of frontline workers, mourns the loss of loved ones, and addresses the complex array of feelings attendant to physical distancing, economic hardship, and systemic inequities that the pandemic intensified. This series aims to show moments of struggle, strength, and resilience in the face of the challenges that the pandemic has presented to our community. Works displayed in this series may include portraits of essential workers, scenes of daily life under quarantine, and illustrations that capture moments of togetherness despite the necessity of social distance, among other possibilities.
Submissions
The university invites creative submissions from Kentucky image-makers that define who we are and how we come together, it said in a press release. Artists may be amateur or professional, affiliated or non-affiliated with UK, and living anywhere in the state in order to maximize community participation. Works submitted may include digital photographs, illustrations, scans, and other still digital content.
An individual artist may submit one still image to each of the two open call series. Along with their image(s), they will be asked to submit their name, work title, work description, and contact information.
The deadline to submit is Feb 8, 2021.
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