News Release: Crosswalk Art Installation in Downtown Jackson, Tennessee

Jackson Downtown Development Corporation (JDDC), in partnership with theCO and the City of Jackson, announces an open call for artists to design and install temporary asphalt art in the crosswalks of Main St. and Church St. in Downtown Jackson, Tennessee. The project is part of a recently awarded Downtown Improvement grant through Tennessee Department of ​​Economic and Community Development to provide capital improvements to the physical facade of the Main and Church intersections.

Jackson Downtown Development Corporation is calling West Tennessee based artists to submit applications to both design and install the crosswalk asphalt art. The primary goals of the installation are to slow traffic and increase walkability to enhance public safety at the intersection of Main and Church, create a vibrant, eye-catching art installation to increase visual quality of the streetscape for both residents and tourists, and increase economic activity and traffic to local businesses in surrounding areas.

Once applications are submitted, the Design Committee appointed by JDDC will choose one artist for the project. The artist will work collaboratively with community volunteers to install the temporary artwork during limited time during a temporary street closure in November, 2023. The public will be invited to participate in the installation process. The artwork is expected to last between three to five years before revisiting for maintenance.

“We are excited to have the opportunity to use a placemaking project like asphalt art to enhance a developing corner of Downtown creatively to improve safety and walkability, and support local art while involving the community,” said Beth Ann Simpson, Director of Jackson Downtown Development Corporation. “The collaboration with Downtown partners is encouraging, and our hope is creative placemaking will continue to create a sense of belonging and provide solutions throughout our city.”  

Interested artists may apply by August 14th, 2023. All details about the crosswalk art project, the call for artists, and how to apply can be found here. For questions about the project, contact Lizzie Emmons, Community and Projects Manager of theCO, at lizzie@attheco.com.