Kettering library, art institute seek local artwork for new branch

The Dayton Metro Library and Dayton Art Institute are looking for “site specific” artwork to place in the soon-to-be renovated Wilmington-Stroop branch in Kettering, according to a press release.

Proposals will be accepted through Aug. 18 with commissions announced in September.

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A partnership between the library and the art institute called ReImagining Works helps acquire original artwork for each of the library’s new or renovated locations, made possible by an anonymous bequest.

For the Wilmington-Stroop Branch, regional artists — within a 250-mile radius of Dayton — are invited to propose newly created artwork in response to two pieces in the art institute’s permanent collection: Bold Endeavor by John Kuhn and Red Circle by Dwinell Grant.

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The pieces were chosen by community vote, mostly users of the Wilmington-Stroop Branch Library. An informational meeting for artists is scheduled for 11 a.m. July 15 at the art institute, located at 456 Belmonte Park in Dayton. Ruetschle Architects will be on hand to review the building plans and answer questions.

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The Wilmington-Stroop library’s extensive remodeling and expansion project has a targeted opening date of January 2019. The 21,000-square-foot library will encourage pedestrian travel, take advantage of outdoor opportunities and position the library as a community gathering place, officials said.

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