Public Arts in Burlington Heat Up this Summer
The Select Board discusses initiatives that will showcase artistic talent around Burlington this summer and beyond.
The heat won't stop the pubic arts scene in Burlington this summer – in fact, things are starting to heat up.
At their June 23 meeting, the Select Board discussed a number of art initiatives that will bring vibrancy to Burlington's public realm this summer.
An idea that has been kicking around for several months was given formal approval, and this summer you'll begin to see one or two of the town's large electrical boxes painted to reflect the uniqueness of the area. Von Larson, a Burlington high schooler attending The Pingree School, has been given approval to paint the box closest to the post office with a wraparound mural representing the Mill Pond reservoir, an out-of-the-way but iconic spot for hiking, fishing, and other recreation in Burlington.
Von's mother, Misha Larson, appeared to discuss the project along with BHS Art Program Director, George Ratkevitch, who is also a member of the Burlington Public Arts Committee. The plan is for Von to paint two boxes if time allows this summer, though the second box is pending design approval from the Select Board.
The approval comes as the town's mobile micro gallery, set up in a converted trailer, is set to have its grand opening on Friday, June 27, on the Town Common. The gallery, renovated and curated by Catherine LeComte-Lecce, will feature work by local artist Jai Hart and has the ability to travel throughout town so community members can see it in different places. Large windows and interior lighting ensure the artwork is visible from the outside.
And, the original public art format, the Sculpture Park will be relocated this summer, with sculptures placed along both sides of Center Street near the town's municipal campus. The final pieces, two sculptural benches, will be relocated this summer, as well – possibly to the library and the Human Services building at 61 Center Street, though the locations haven't yet been finalized. This move is in preparation for the demolition and rebuilding of the police station, which is expected to begin this fall.
Looking ahead, Select Board liaison to the Public Arts Committee said the Committee has a seed of an idea for a town mural project, which they hope to see in 2026.
