TEMPOart’s mission is to commission temporary public art that sparks dialogue, builds community, and inspires our collective imagination. This blog post highlights how our latest commission, “Dancing for Joy (By the Will of the People)” opening June 13 5-6PM, aligns with TEMPOart’s vision and its impact on Portland’s public spaces.

Since its inception, TEMPOart has been dedicated to enriching Portland’s public spaces through temporary art installations. Each project is designed to be accessible, thought-provoking, and inclusive, encouraging people from all walks of life to engage with art in meaningful ways.

“Dancing for Joy” is the latest addition to TEMPOart’s portfolio, reflecting the organization’s commitment to fostering community connection and dialogue. By bringing large-scale public art to Back Cove Trail and Park, TEMPOart aims to create a space where people can come together, share experiences, and appreciate the transformative power of art.

TEMPOart has a history of successful projects that have left a lasting impact on the community. Previous installations, such as “The American Dream” and “Resonance,” have sparked conversations on important social issues, from immigration to environmental sustainability. These projects have demonstrated the potential of public art to inspire reflection, dialogue, and positive change.

The organization’s events and programming further enhance the impact of these installations, offering educational opportunities and engaging activities for people of all ages. By partnering with local schools, cultural institutions, and community groups, TEMPOart ensures that its projects are deeply rooted in the community and accessible to everyone.

“Dancing for Joy” embodies TEMPOart’s mission in multiple ways. The installation’s interactive design invites visitors to engage with the sculpture, encouraging physical movement and playful exploration. The depiction of great egrets in their mating dance symbolizes the vibrant life and dynamic interactions that characterize Back Cove Trail and Park.

The dedication of the installation to the freedom to marry who you love aligns with TEMPOart’s commitment to promoting inclusivity and social justice. By celebrating a significant milestone in Maine’s history, “Dancing for Joy” highlights the power of collective action.

TEMPOart also collaborates with local schools and educational institutions to provide learning opportunities that complement the curriculum and inspire students to explore their creativity. These programs are designed to be accessible to people of all ages and backgrounds, ensuring that everyone has the opportunity to engage with and benefit from public art.

As a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, TEMPOart relies on the generosity of donors to fund its projects and make public art free and accessible to all. Contributions from individuals, businesses, and foundations are vital to the success of TEMPOart’s mission and help bring transformative art experiences to Portland’s public spaces.

“Dancing for Joy” is a testament to TEMPOart’s vision of art as a catalyst for community connection and dialogue. By commissioning and supporting temporary public art, TEMPOart enriches Portland’s public spaces and inspires people to see their world in new ways. We invite you to join us in celebrating this magnificent installation and the vibrant community it brings together.