Several Darlington students and one faculty member are being featured as a part of the third annual Rome Community HeART Project for the month of February. A total of 15 "HeARTs" and five new HeART garlands will grace Downtown Rome and the lobby at Redmond Regional Medical Center, all in an effort to celebrate National Heart Month and the contributions of public art.
Each participating artist or group of artists used the medium of their choice to cover the three-dimensional cement hearts in a theme focused around a heart-healthy lifestyle. The project is a collaboration between Redmond and the Rome Area Council for the Arts (RACA).
“We really found out that public art offers a sense of connection to the community,” said Rainey Campbell, RACA executive director. “This project celebrates local artists and raises awareness for heart health. The combination of those is really wonderful.”
The public art initiative began in 2014 with 10 artists and 10 pieces, and continues to receive praise, adding to the quality of life for locals and to the cultural experience for out-of-town visitors.
"We always enjoy seeing the work of our talented Tigers out there in the community for all to appreciate," said Kim Tunnell, Darlington's director of fine arts. "We're very thankful that Rome and Floyd County continues to demonstrate an understanding of the importance of the arts."
Participating Darlington artists & locations:
The community is encouraged to visit, take pictures, and enjoy each HeART through Feb. 29.
Click here to vote for your favorite HeART on the RACA Facebook page. Voters can take part in the poll once daily for the duration of the month. The artist with the most votes will be given a cash prize at the conclusion of the outdoor art exhibition.
