THINK Rochester & Rochester Hills

Rochester Hills Unveils ‘Art on Auburn 2’: A Celebration of Community and Creativity

Rochester Hills Unveils ‘Art on Auburn 2’: A Celebration of Community and Creativity

by | Apr 22, 2024

Rochester Hills is once again buzzing with excitement as it unveils “Art on Auburn 2,” a continuation of a captivating community art initiative that first adorned the streets in 2021. This project aims to splash the Brooklands neighborhood with at least 20 new pieces of striking artwork, reflecting the vibrant spirit and artistic talent within the city. Stemming from the initial installment, which showcased 25 student artworks along Auburn Road, this sequel invites local artists to express their love for Rochester Hills under the poignant theme, “Why do you ♥ Rochester Hills?” It’s a creative dialogue between the city and its inhabitants, offering a platform for artists to showcase what makes the community truly special to them.

By throwing the spotlight on local creativity, “Art on Auburn 2” not only enhances the visual appeal of the neighborhood but also fosters a deeper connection among residents. The chosen theme serves as a canvas for artists to illustrate their personal experiences, landmarks, and untold stories that echo the heart of Rochester Hills. It is this embrace of local sentiment and artistic expression that positions “Art on Auburn 2” as not just an art project, but a celebration of community identity and unity. Whether it’s the gentle rolling hills, the bustling community events, or the serene natural landscapes, artists are encouraged to capture the essence of their city in vibrant hues and compelling designs.

The submission process for “Art on Auburn 2” is meticulously designed to encourage participation while maintaining high artistic standards. Interested artists, regardless of their connection to Rochester Hills, are invited to showcase their work within strict yet creative guidelines. Submissions are limited to a palette of five colors, must be in a 2D medium, and conform to a circular format to ensure uniformity and visual coherence once installed. The city has also made it convenient for artists to participate by providing an online portal for submissions and even offering templates to help kickstart the creative process. This structured approach balances creative freedom with the practical aspects of public art installations, ensuring that the final displays are both visually striking and harmonious with the urban landscape.

Selection of artworks for “Art on Auburn 2” will involve both a jury of artists and community representatives and a public voting phase, ensuring a democratic and fair process. The jury’s task is to sift through the entries based on artistic excellence and alignment with the project theme, choosing up to 50 pieces for community vote. This blend of professional evaluation and public opinion underscores the project’s community-centered ethos, making the final selection a reflection of both quality artistry and communal preference. Slated for unveiling at a community-wide celebration this summer, the winners of “Art on Auburn 2” are not simply chosen—they are embraced by the community they set out to encapsulate, making this initiative a true testament to the power of public art in creating shared spaces of beauty and pride.