Extra display time for Exhibit Columbus pieces positive sign

Exhibit Columbus was more than a temporary display of art works in the city. It became part of the community, an interactive showcase of the community’s legacy of art, architecture and design.

Residents and visitors enjoyed the exhibit of 18 pieces, as it attracted about 40,000 or more visitors during the three-month run from Aug. 26 to Nov. 26. Exhibit Columbus is a project of Landmark Columbus and a program of the Heritage Fund — The Community Foundation of Bartholomew County.

It wasn’t surprising, then, that some residents were hopeful that some of the artworks could remain permanent fixtures in Columbus.

The good news is that four pieces are staying a bit longer, giving residents and visitors another opportunity to see them again — or for the first time. They are:

“Wiikiaami,” a tepee-like design of rebar. One of the Miller Prize winners, it will stay for an undetermined time in front of First Christian Church while a new locale is determined.

“The Exchange,” featuring geometrics implied by three canopies. One of the Miller Prize winners, it will remain at the south corner of the Irwin Conference Center, Fifth and Washington streets, for an undetermined time before it is sent elsewhere.

“Window to Columbus,” a glazed brick wall with an inset window. It will stay until at least summer at the Heritage Fund — The Community Foundation of Bartholomew County, 538 Franklin St.

“Theoretical Foyer,” a colorful brick installation at Seventh and Washington streets, will stay at the location until summer before a decision is made on its future.

The Columbus Area Visitors Center is naturally excited to have the pieces to continue marketing the exhibits and attracting more visitors to the community.

This will extend interest in Exhibit Columbus, and gives more publicity to the city, which already is on the cover of the official state travel guide. A photo of the “Large Arch” at the library plaza framing First Christian Church in the background serves to invite people to the city.

The fact that these exhibits are sticking around longer speaks to the positive reception of Exhibit Columbus by local residents, and its popularity beyond the community. That’s a good sign.

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