“Dancing for Joy (By the Will of the People)” Community Opening June 13
We are pleased to announce TEMPOart’s 2024-2025 temporary public art commission, Dancing for Joy (By the Will of the People). Created by internationally renowned artists Donna Dodson and Andy Moerlein of The Myth Makers, Dancing for Joy will be a large installation situated on Back Cove Trail and Park in Portland, ME for up to two years beginning June 2024.
A community “opening” for “Dancing for Joy (By the Will of the People)” is planned for 5-6 p.m. June 13, with performances by Alejandro Graciano Music (rain date June 14).
Great Egrets are flamboyant and vivid. Each spring they grow extravagant plumes and leap with abandon to attract and impress a mate. They are remarkable birds that develop adoring relationships, gently sharing all nesting and child care duties.
This work will be a meeting place, a place for children to play in and run through. A glittering silver white and nearly 20 feet tall, it will be a beacon, visible from many views along the Back Cove trail.
Dancing for Joy is designed for all ages. The doorways are a variety of sizes. Which entry suits you? Can you dance your best show off prance through the display of the Dancing Great Egrets?
This installation is dedicated to the freedom to marry who you love. These sculptures celebrate the will of the people to democratically transform society. In 2012 Maine became the first state to legalize same-sex marriage through a popular vote.
Announcing TEMPOart’s 2024 Commission: “Dancing for Joy (By the Will of the People)”
TEMPOart is thrilled to announce our 2024 commission, Dancing for Joy (By the Will of the People), by The Myth Makers, landing on Back Cove Trail in June 2024. On our blog, we will be sharing progress updates as these artists create this new piece just for Portland, ME, as well as background on how this piece came to be. You can learn about the history of the Back Cove Trail site here, and read on to hear from the artists what in spired them to create Dancing for Joy (By the Will of the People) for our community. We can’t wait to see you at the Community Opening on June 13 5-6pm!
Excerpts from The Myth Maker’s project proposal (the full proposal is available below):
“During our site visit to the Back Cove Trail and Park, we noticed several bird species lingering in the water and on the shores of the cove that border the inlet to Casco Bay such as Cattle Egret, Great Egret and Double-crested Cormorants. While doing further research, we took great delight in learning more about the festive display of feathers by the Great Egret in the mating dance.
We know many families begin their relationship with Maine by summering there, then they find themselves falling in love with Maine, and eventually moving there and calling it home. Our proposed sculpture will feature two monumental great egrets performing their distinctive mating dance on the shores of the Back Cove. This duet symbolizes the local bird life of the cove and the way people move in and out of and connect to this special place.
Great Egrets are flamboyant and vivid. Each spring they grow extravagant plumes and leap with abandon to attract and impress a mate. They are remarkable birds that develop adoring relationships, gently sharing all nesting and child care duties.
This work will be a meeting place, a place for children to play in and run through. A glittering silver white and nearly 20 feet tall, it will be a beacon, visible from many views along the Back Cove trail.
Dancing for Joy is designed for all ages. The doorways are a variety of sizes. Which entry suits you? Can you dance your best show off prance through the display of the Dancing Great Egrets?
This installation is dedicated to the freedom to marry who you love. These sculptures celebrate the will of the people to democratically transform society. In 2012 Maine became the first state to legalize same-sex marriage through a popular vote.
We will pre-build off site our two lightweight bamboo sculptures with natural materials, wire ties, repurposed and reused materials. Each sculpture is attached to a wood base made out of pressure treated lumber. Our methods are suitable for all seasons, strong and resilient in all types of weather and will stand up to public curiosity and interaction as designed. We will transport the two sculptures to the site and anchor them into the ground using a combination of earth anchors and gravel ballast that will fill the two wood bases. Once in the park we will augment the tall sculptures with wings that will be punctuated by arched doorways, creating an open but architecturally enclosing space that will invite playful interaction for all ages.”
You can read the full proposal from The Myth Makers below, along with their CV and previous project examples.
Thank you for attending our amazing Catalyst fundraiser to support our 2024 temporary public art commission to be installed on Back Cove Trail and Park from June 2024 – June 2025 – Dancing for Joy (By the Will of the People) by The Myth Makers! We had an amazing time meeting and mingling with you all over delicious food and beverage at Après in Portland, ME. For those that missed the event we wanted to share the program details and a link to the presentation. Follow the links to learn more about Dancing for Joy!
Catalyst 2024 Photo by David WadeCatalyst 2024 Photo by David WadeCatalyst 2024 Photo by David WadeCatalyst 2024 Photo by David WadeCatalyst 2024 Photo by David WadeCatalyst 2024 Photo by David Wade
Catalyst is TONIGHT!
CATALYST IS TONIGHT!
March 18, 5:30-7:30PM @ Après, 148 Anderson Street, Portland, ME
Join us tonight for ourCatalyst Fundraiser to support our 2024 temporary public art commission to be installed on Back Cove Trail and Park from June 2024 – June 2025 – Dancing for Joy (By the Will of the People) by The Myth Makers!
Meet and mingle with artists and local arts and community enthusiasts over delicious food and beverage at Après in Portland, ME. This creative gathering will include:
A presentation by artist team Donna Dodson and Andy Moerlein of The Myth Makers unveiling our 2024 commission.
Collaborations with local artists and designers.
Performances by local dancer/choreographers Holly Taylor, Liz Mulkey, Kristen Stake, & Hannah Wasielewski
Opportunities to get involved with TEMPOart’s mission.
General Admission tickets are $50. Host Committee tickets are $125 for individuals and $250 for couples and will be listed in our invitation and program. All attendees will receive one drink ticket and hors d’oeuvres. If you’ve already purchased tickets, thank you! We will have your name on the list at the door.
March 18, 5:30-7:30PM @ Après, 148 Anderson Street, Portland, ME
Join us at our upcoming Catalyst Fundraiser to support our 2024 temporary public art commission to be installed on Back Cove Trail and Park from June 2024 – June 2025 – Dancing for Joy (By the Will of the People) by The Myth Makers!
Meet and mingle with artists and local arts and community enthusiasts over delicious food and beverage at Après in Portland, ME. This creative gathering will include:
A presentation by artist team Donna Dodson and Andy Moerlein of The Myth Makers unveiling our 2024 commission.
Collaborations with local artists and designers.
Performances by local dancer/choreographers Holly Taylor, Liz Mulkey, Kristen Stake, & Hannah Wasielewski.
Opportunities to get involved with TEMPOart’s mission.
General Admission tickets are $50. Host Committee tickets are $125 for individuals and $250 for couples and will be listed in our invitation and program. All attendees will receive one drink ticket and hors d’oeuvres.
TEMPOart is thrilled to partner with the Cultural Alliance of Maine for Cultural Advocacy Day this year. On Tuesday March 5, we will join our peers in the arts and culture sector to highlight how cultural activity has a ripple effect, benefiting all Maine communities. Registration is still available, and the program includes talks and performances by many amazing Maine based artists and cultural organizers. Hope to see you there!
You’re Invited to Catalyst 2024
You’re Invited! Catalyst 2024
March 18, 5:30-7:30PM @ Après, 148 Anderson Street, Portland, ME
Join us at our upcoming Catalyst Fundraiser to support our 2024 temporary public art commission to be installed on Back Cove Trail and Park from June 2024 – June 2025 – “Dancing for Joy” by The Myth Makers!
Meet and mingle with artists and local arts and community enthusiasts over delicious food and beverage at Après in Portland, ME while learning about the project and how you can get involved.
General Admission tickets are $50. Host Committee tickets are $125 for individuals and $250 for couples and will be listed in our invitation and program. All attendees will receive one drink ticket and hors d’oeuvres.
Join our growing list of public art supporters for this special evening! Even if you are unable to attend, we’d love for you to join us as a host.
THANK YOU TO OUR HOST COMMITTEE
Meg & Rob Adams Charlton & Noni Ames Trisha Bauman Christine Beneman Steve Bither Victoria Bonebakker Braden Buehler Barbara & Bill Burgess Tom & Kate Chappell Gregg Lipton & Sara Crisp David & Jil Eaton Taffy Field Anna Ginn Lauren & Aron Glennon Betsy Griffin Alison Hildreth Mary Allen Lindemann & James Hoban Jamie Johnston Patrick & Janice Kelly Alison Gibbs & Loren Kessell Angus & Cricket King Pandora & David LaCasse Sue & Tom Lambe Judy Glickman Lauder E. Kent Gordon & Jess Lauren Lipton Lin Lisberger Roger Berle & Lesley Macvane Jessica Muise & Brendan Mahoney Dick McIntosh Nanci Kahn & Steve Melchiskey Marjorie Moore Margaret Morfit Marian Morgan Charlotte B Phillips Lissa Hunter & Kirby Pilcher Darcy & Matthew Poor Sue & Malcolm Rogers Frank & Susan Ruch John Ryan & Jenny Scheu Ellen Seidman Lynn & Jim Shaffer Alice & Dick Spencer Dodo & Paul Stevens David & Ann Swardlick Caroline Teschke Cy Hagge & Jessica Tomlinson Sharon Townshend Abigail & Barry Wark
Sponsorship Opportunities
Complimentary Catalyst tickets are one of the many benefits of sponsoring TEMPOart. Enliven Portland’s cultural landscape with public art and engage with thousands of residents, visitors, and our vibrant community through TEMPOart’s mission. Opportunities to sponsor artist tickets are available.
Reach out to Interim Executive Director Jessica Muise at manager [ at ] tempoartmaine.org and learn more on our website.
Thank you to our latest sponsor, Gorham Savings Bank!
Strategic Plan: Share Your Input
Based in Portland Maine, TEMPOart commissions and supports temporary public art that sparks dialogue, builds community and inspires our collective imagination.
TEMPOart is now working on a strategic plan for 2025, and seeking input to inform the planning process. The following survey is open to anyone interested in arts in Maine. Thank you in advance for your time and valuable input! Please only fill out one survey per person. Here is the link to the survey.
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.
TEMPOart Founder Alice Spencer, Board Secretary and USM Faculty Alum Sharon Townshend, and Interim Executive Director Jessica Muise participated in a facilitated discussion with USM Art Department to help the institution “dream big” for the local arts ecosystem. Photo courtesy of USM.
The Power of Public Art: Insights from Jessica Muise at Kegs & Issues
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.
