On February 15, 2024 TEMPOart participated in a dynamic discussion at the University of Southern Maine (USM), where collaboration was the focal point. Faculty and staff from USM’s Art Department, along with representatives from leading arts organizations across Greater Portland, came together to envision the future of visual arts at the university. Led by professors Hannah Barnes and Kelly Hrenko, the gathering aimed to chart a path towards increased community engagement, innovative curricular offerings, and signature programs within the Art Department.

One exciting development on the horizon is the upcoming opening of the Crewe Center for the Arts, scheduled for fall 2025. This state-of-the-art facility will feature an art gallery, sculpture garden, and visual arts studio, serving as a hub for creativity and expression. With the addition of the Kate Cheney Chappell ’83 Center for Book Arts, the Crewe Center promises to be a dynamic space for artistic exploration and collaboration.

During the discussion at USM, participants brainstormed ideas for community engagement initiatives at the Crewe Center. From collaborative art exhibitions to workshops and artist-in-residency programs, the possibilities are endless. As TEMPOart looks ahead, it is committed to forging partnerships with educational and cultural institutions like USM to expand access to the arts and create enriching experiences for people of all ages. As the campus expands, there are more opportunities for public art installations on the grounds. When TEMPOart commissions and hosts artists, we share that resource with USM’s faculty and students.

TEMPOart’s involvement in the conversation at USM underscores its dedication to fostering collaboration, creativity, and community engagement. By harnessing the power of public art and forging meaningful partnerships, TEMPOart continues to inspire individuals, provoke thought, and transform public spaces into vibrant canvases of expression. As we look towards the future, let us embrace the vision of TEMPOart and continue to dream big together.

At the recent Kegs & Issues event hosted by the Portland Regional Chamber of Commerce on January 31, 2024, Jessica Muise, the Interim Executive Director of TEMPOart, took the stage to share profound insights into the transformative power of public art. As the driving force behind TEMPOart’s mission to enrich Portland through temporary public art and community connection, Muise illuminated the audience with compelling narratives and tangible takeaways.

The Power of Accessible Art

Muise emphasized TEMPOart’s unwavering commitment to making art accessible to all, dismantling barriers that often hinder engagement with transformative artistic experiences. By offering free and inclusive art installations, TEMPOart ensures that the profound impact of art is available to everyone, irrespective of socioeconomic status or educational background. Through collaborative partnerships with educational and cultural institutions, each project becomes a beacon of inspiration, fostering learning opportunities for individuals of all ages and backgrounds.

Community Connection Through Creativity

A central theme of Muise’s discourse was the role of public art as a vital bridge, uniting diverse communities and catalyzing dialogue. TEMPOart’s projects serve as dynamic platforms for shared experiences, sparking conversations that transcend societal boundaries and norms. By igniting a sense of wonder and curiosity, public art cultivates connections that endure long after the installations are removed, enriching the fabric of community life.

Creative Economy and Economic Impact

Muise shed light on TEMPOart’s participation in the Arts & Economic Prosperity 6 Study, which underscored the profound economic and social contributions of the arts and culture sector in Portland. With staggering figures revealing $86 million in economic activity, job creation, and government revenue, the study affirmed the indispensable role of the arts in fostering prosperity and vitality within the community. Muise urged support for local artists and initiatives, emphasizing the transformative potential of the arts as a driver of communal growth and well-being.

Joining the Movement

As a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, TEMPOart relies on charitable contributions to uphold its mission of making public art accessible to all. Muise passionately invited attendees to join TEMPOart on its journey of cultivating art as a transformative force, uniting communities and inspiring positive change.

About TEMPOart

TEMPOart is dedicated to commissioning temporary public art that sparks dialogue, builds community, and inspires collective imagination. With each project, TEMPOart aims to make the power and possibility of art free, open, and inclusive, offering transformative experiences to individuals of all backgrounds. Through collaborative partnerships and charitable contributions, TEMPOart remains committed to enriching Portland through the transformative power of public art.

Meet Jessica Muise

Jessica Muise brings over 15 years of experience in the arts and cultural sector to her role as Interim Executive Director of TEMPOart. With a diverse background as a multidisciplinary artist, educator, advocate, and advisor, Muise is passionate about leveraging the arts as tools for social change. As a visionary leader, Muise continues to guide TEMPOart towards its mission of fostering community connection and inspiring positive transformation through public art.

Thank you to Will Wohler of Wohler & Co for amazing photos of this event.