Open Scene was an initiative aimed at increasing inclusivity for youth and underrepresented communities in Downtown Urbana through the arts. Funded by a National Endowment of the Arts - Our Town grant, the City of Urbana and Urbana-Champaign Independent Media Center (IMC) were able to provide four weekend intensives that invited artists to lead creative workshops aimed at supporting the creative leadership of local youth.
As an extension of the project, the Urbana Arts & Culture Program and Urbana-Champaign Independent Media Center continued working together to offer Open Scene Open Mic, a series of open mics held in local venues. Open Scene Open Mic showcased poetry, spoken word, music, dance, and artistic expression designed to promote community, creativity, and connection.
About the Project
Urbana's Growing Community Initiative was a public art project funded by an AARP Community Challenge Grant. It installed local artwork and creative amenities in Urbana-area community gardens, celebrating sustainability, diversity, and community-building. The initiative aimed to benefit low-income neighborhoods by addressing food insecurity through beautification and utility in the gardens.
Access and Inclusion
The project focused on community gardens servicing neighborhoods with high levels of housing and food insecurity, predominantly benefiting Black and Latinx communities, immigrants, low-income individuals, and those with disabilities. By enhancing these spaces, the initiative aimed to provide greater access, enjoyment, and creative connection for all residents and visitors.
Locations
The following gardens were partnered in the program: Lierman Neighborhood Community Garden (Lierman and Washington Streets, Urbana, 61802) Cunningham Township Community Garden (205 West Green Street, Urbana, 61801) Victory Park Community Gardens (1000 East Green Street, Urbana, 61802) Habitat for Humanity Community Garden (1309 West Hill Street, Urbana 61801) Meadowbrook Community Gardens’ Solidarity Plot (2808 South Race Street, Urbana, 61801)