An Isabella County public art tradition has once again launched throughout several local communities.

Art Reach of Mid Michigan has opened up the submission window for its 11th annual Festival of Banners. The public art campaign is requesting that residents, schools, and businesses submit their own banner designs now through Friday, Feb. 15.

Approximately 300 banners will be hanged from the street poles and walls of downtown Mt. Pleasant, Pickard Street in Union Township, the Village of Shepherd, and the Emergency Department at McLaren Central Michigan, and all designed by local members and organizations from the community.

The banners will be displayed from May to late November 2019.

Adult artists may purchase a banner for $25 and youth artists aged between eight and 18 years old and senior artists over the age of 65 are able to participate for free. There are no skill requirements and banners will be accepted on a first-come, first-serve basis with limited exceptions.

Should an organization or business rather display their name or logo, they may purchase a sponsorship banner for $125.

“The Festival of Banners is an awesome opportunity for Art Reach to infuse the community with public art, while providing access to the arts for hundreds of students throughout Isabella and Clare counties,” says Amy Powell, Executive Director for Art Reach.

“The banners create a unique display, and influence visitors from near and far.”

Art Reach was founded in 1981. The Mount Pleasant-based arts organization has worked to keep the arts accessible and alive in the community. In addition to the Festival of Banners, its annual programs include the Art Flair exhibition, Art Walk Central, the Art Reach Picture Program, and more.

The organization also offers a host of children’s programming throughout the year, and also scholarships and grants.

Design submission forms are available online or at the Art Reach headquarters at 111 E. Broadway St. in downtown Mt. Pleasant.

Throughout the month of March, community paint days will be held at Jameson Hall at Jameson Park. Paint will be provided.

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