the artpark idea
exhibited in collection studies, burchfield penney art center, curated selections from the archives
The Artpark Archive, houses over 2 decades of textural and photographic material documenting and recording the innovative artist residency, dedicated to creating and commissioning temporary artwork outdoors. A unique publicly-funded state park dedicated to all aspects of the arts was able to assemble the most collaborative and avant-garde artists of their time. The mission, was to observe and experiment with the relationship between the public and art. As the program grew there was an advance in community outreach; more artists developed installations that involved the public’s interaction. From a human puzzle to a giant maze, and even a time capsule to define what the 70s was all about. These projects captivated the attention of thousands of people throughout the region.
Sitting just north of the Niagara Falls, Artpark consists of 200 acres of wooded area, cliffs and open terraces. They housed and situated over 200 artists who made the journey to this art sanctuary to transform its landscape into an experimental artistic habitat. Through the summer months, the park was a kaleidoscopic series of various activities indoors and outdoors; produced by visiting musicians, storytellers, poets, sculptors, dancers, and craft-artists. These artists helped feature theatrical and dance performances, fireworks, cooking demonstrations and crafts workshops held on an elevated L-shape communal platform called the ArtEl. Their collective brought together a community of art appreciation, and encouraged the creativity of young minds. Children were encouraged to watch and learn from the artists demonstrating their trade, and were often able to participate.