A nonprofit publication of the Kentucky Center for Public Service Journalism

Interactive light-based installations wanted for BLINK; SkyStar stay extended to June


BLINK, illuminated by ArtsWave, has announced a call to artists for the October 10-13, 2019 event.

A BLINK mural from the 2017 event (file photo)

Cincinnati’s homegrown art and light phenomenon is looking for artists to submit proposals for interactive light-based installations produced by ArtWorks. BLINK’s inaugural event in October 2017 spanned 20 Cincinnati blocks and was experienced by more than one million visitors, the largest gathering of people ever in downtown Cincinnati and Over-the-Rhine.

“If you have a unique, brilliant idea, BLINK is looking for you,” said Tamara Harkavy, CEO and artistic director of ArtWorks, light-based installation curator for BLINK. “We’re looking locally and regionally for diverse and original concepts that will engage and amaze BLINK’s audience of more than one million.”

BLINK is the largest U.S. event of it’s kind and it will expand into Covington in 2019.

Applications are now being accepted at BLINKCincinnati.com/artistapplication and are due by Monday, January 28, 2019. The jury will consist of a diverse panel including representatives from ArtsWave, Cincinnati’s Contemporary Arts Center and community curators.

Artists interested in learning more about the application process are invited to attend an informational session Wednesday, December 12, 6–7:30 p.m., at Cincinnati Shakespeare Company, 1195 Elm Street, 45202. Attendance is not required to submit an application.

The inaugural BLINK in 2017 received nearly 75 applications. That number is expected to more than double for BLINK 2019.

BLINK is produced by The Agar, ArtWorks, Brave Berlin, the Carol Ann and Ralph V Haile, Jr./U.S. Bank Foundation and the Cincinnati USA Regional Chamber.

SkyStar extends its Cincinnati stay to June

SkyStar, the 150-foot-high mobile observation wheel on Freedom Way at The Banks, will stay until June 16. It’s originally scheduled run was August 31 to December 2, 2018.

“In its short stay, SkyStar has already become a Greater Cincinnati tradition and a beautiful addition to Cincinnati’s skyline, “said Cynthia Oxley, director of Corporate and Community Events for the Cincinnati USA Regional Chamber. “We’re thrilled that America’s largest portable observation wheel is sticking around for Cincinnati’s spring events including Asian Food Fest and Taste of Cincinnati.

“More than 100,000 riders have enjoyed SkyStar during its Cincinnati visit,” added Todd Schneider of SkyStar. “The people of Cincinnati have been so warm and welcoming. We’re thrilled to stay another six months.”

“We’re excited to have SkyStar with us through the winter months and into the 150th anniversary season of the Cincinnati Reds,” said Tracy Schwegmann of Jeffrey R. Anderson Real Estate, developer of The Banks. “It’s a great way for our restaurants and retailers to continue the 10th anniversary celebration of The Banks.”

SkyStar provides unique views of downtown Cincinnati, Covington, the Ohio River and the Roebling Suspension Bridge. It features more than one million LED lights. Each of the 36 gondolas is enclosed, climate controlled and can hold up to six passengers.

Skystar offers a private experience and riders are not paired with strangers. The SkyStar experience consists of four revolutions and lasts approximately 12 minutes.

Hours

Monday through Thursday – 4 to 10 p.m. 

Friday – noon to midnight

Saturday – 10 a.m. to midnight

Sunday – 10 a.m. to 10 p.m.

Tickets are $12.50 each and available now at www.skystarwheel.com.

Cincinnati USA Regional Chamber


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