Welcome
FREDERICK VIES FOR TOP ARTS DESTINATION AGAIN
- March 1, 2012
- on 3/1/2012
- MoJo: want2dish
Frederick was recognized as a Top Small Arts City by American Style Magazine the past two years and the Frederick Arts Council is leading an effort to ensure Frederick receives the recognition again in 2012 by encouraging individuals to vote for Frederick as a Top Arts Destination.
Each year AmericanStyle Magazine, a national publication that promotes the significance of handmade objects of art, has an annual competition to select the top 25 arts destinations in the United States, based on population numbers. Frederick ranked eighth in the Small City category along with other towns such as Annapolis, Berkeley Springs, W.Va., and New Hope, Pa.
Frederick is well deserved to be named a top arts destination in the small city category, according to Shuan Butcher, Frederick Arts Council executive director. In 2010, downtown Frederick was named the top Arts and Entertainment District of the Year by the Maryland Department of Business and Economic Development. The city is home to a thriving arts community, including a nationally-juried fine arts and crafts festival, a plein air event, three film festivals, internationally-recognized public art, a major regional art center and approximately ten other galleries.
In the performing arts, there are three theaters within 50 feet of each other in downtown Frederick, over 20 dance studios, over a dozen theater and producing groups, eight choral groups, seven symphonic, brass or concert bands, and other great events that feature live music. And that is just the half of it.
AmericanStyle magazine showcases the eclectic lifestyles of artists, the elegant homes of craft collectors and features about "the art of creative living," making Frederick a perfect fit to be chosen as a top arts destination. Recognition in the magazine will further recognize Frederick as a creative community and will encourage more tourism and support the local economy. The rankings are based on a readers’ poll, therefore local residents can make a difference.
“This past year, we moved up 10 spots and we hope to at least sustain that position if not move up the list even further, but we need everyone to go online and vote,” he said. Voters need to go to www.americanstyle.com and vote for Frederick in the small city category. Individuals must cast their vote by March 3 and everyone who votes will be entered to win $500.
The Frederick Arts Council fosters the growth of the arts, artists and arts organizations through grant and scholarship programs, workshops and arts education forums, and advocacy. The organization is supported by a grant from the Maryland State Arts Council, an agency funded by the State of Maryland and the National Endowment for the Arts. For more information, visit the Council’s website at www.frederickartscouncil.org or call 301-662-4190.
You must log in to post comments.
