ORLANDO — Orlando has an anniversary party coming up, and the city is now looking for artists to help create a new large-scale mural that will help residents and visitors alike commemorate the day Orlando went from a settlement to a town.
The deadline for a proposal is Sunday, March 16.
As the city noted, this is an opportunity for artists to shape a permanent legacy and help shape Orlando’s 150th Anniversary, a celebration that runs throughout the year.
What Happens During Orlando’s 150th Anniversary?
Last month, Mayor Buddy Dyer unveiled plans for a yearlong celebration to honor the city’s upcoming anniversary on July 31.
Originally called Mosquito County, the land that Orlando is a part of got renamed Orange County in 1845. A growing number of settlements during the 1850s resulted in the incorporation of the Town of Orlando on July 31, 1875, when the community had 85 residents, including 22 who were eligible to vote. Orlando was established as a city in 1885.
That history will be fully on display throughout the year, and artwork is going to feature prominently in the fun.
“The City of Orlando invites all residents, businesses, and organizations to join in the celebration,” the City notes. “Opportunities to participate include hosting events, offering special anniversary promotions, sharing personal Orlando stories on social media, and contributing historical anecdotes and photos to the city’s digital history board.”
How is Public Art Playing a Role in Orlando’s Anniversary?
Public art will be a part of the year-long celebration. In April, the Orange County Regional History Center, 65 E. Central Blvd., will host a new exhibit showcasing 150 historic items donated by local individuals and organizations, “offering a window into the city’s rich history,” the city notes.
The plans also include a mural for a new pocket park, and the city is asking area artists to submit ideas. As the City noted:
“The City of Orlando is seeking proposals from talented local artists to create a large-scale mural for a new urban pocket park. The commissioned mural will celebrate Orlando’s iconic downtown cityscape, capturing its unique character and energy, and will serve as a lasting commemoration of the City of Orlando’s 150th anniversary. This opportunity is open to local artists experienced in designing and implementing large-scale public art projects. The submission deadline is Sunday, March 16.”
Artists can send their proposals by email to: 150@orlando.gov or by visiting the City’s 150th Anniversary page.
Check out the Lemonhearted blog to see some of the city’s existing murals.
What Else Can Residents Do to Participate?
A simple phase: Thanks for the memories!
The City is asking local residents to share their memories as part of the celebration.
“From its humble beginnings as a small frontier town in 1875, Orlando has grown into a vibrant and diverse community,” the City notes. “As we commemorate this historic anniversary, we invite you to join us in celebrating the past, present and future of our beloved city … Share written narratives, photographs, articles, newspaper clippings, or any other materials that tell the story of Orlando.”
Michael Freeman is an Orlando journalist, playwright, and author of the book A Christmas Eve Story. Contact him at Freelineorlando@gmail.com.
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