In July 2019, artist Zarouhie Abdalian led a four-day workshop for young adults curious about making art in public space. Six participants were guided through a process of designing temporary site-specific artworks for various locations in downtown York.
On day one, the artist shared an introduction to site-specificity and contemporary art practice including images of posters, parades, sculptures, statues, performances, monuments, murals, etc. Abdalian, six participants, and Coleman Center staff took a walking and research tour through downtown York.
Abdalian prompted participating artists to consider different sites around the city center that could shape the work conceptually, were potentially in service to their desired audience, or have personal resonance. They documented spaces of interest with photographs, notes, and sketches.
On day two, participating artists decided whether they want to work individually or as a part of a team, shared sites of interest, and the still-developing concepts grounding their work. Abdalian guided the constructive critique process with prompts like, “How can you convey what is in your head to other people?” The individual artists (or teams) assembled maquettes, drawings, or written notes to share with the group. Participants presented ideas for feedback and discussion. By the end of the day, each person developed a plan for making, taking into consideration the time and materials on hand.
Day three was a workday. Artists executed their designs for each site. They experimented with materials and assessed installation. Abdalian used this as an opportunity to consider documentation for site-specific work – how does the project live on? what are the best ways to document it so that it can be shared later? when does the work begin and what parts of the process do you want to include?
On Day four Abdalian, Coleman Center staff, friends, and family celebrated five completed works by York’s newest public artists. Inclement weather forced these resourceful makers to improvise; presentations were made inside or delayed to avoid the rain.
Workshop participants came with a variety of experiences and communities. There were students from Sumter Central High School, Northeast Lauderdale High School, University of West Alabama and Alabama A&M University; participants represented Livingston, York, and Kinterbish. Together they explored approaches to making artworks that respond to our surroundings and the histories that determine them.
Stay tuned for follow-up posts, interviews, and information on the Making Art in Public workshop.
Zarouhie Abdalian lives and works in New Orleans. Abdalian received a BA from Tulane University in 2003 and an MFA from California College of the Arts in 2010. Her work has been included in international and national exhibitions.
This workshop is offered in partnership with the Educational Foundation of America and ArtPlace America.