The OSTA Project has been launched by a coalition of community partners, with a mission to bring residents together to share local stories, amplify Talent’s diverse voices, and highlight creative placemaking around town! Participating organizations are the Talent Business Alliance, Talent Historical Society, Coalicion Fortaleza, Talent Public Arts Committee, and Talent Maker City. Thank you to the Ford Family Foundation for providing strategic planning grant funding for this exciting project!
The OSTA Project will help memorialize Talent’s diverse history through various art forms, including murals, interactive installations, and multimedia performances.
“Our community's diversity and stories matter, and through this project we want to ensure that all voices are heard and celebrated,” said strategic planning facilitator, Debra Moon.
Central to the project is the development of several murals placed throughout the city. These murals will beautify our public spaces and serve as a visual narrative of Talent's history. Each piece will be accompanied by a QR code, allowing viewers to access online content that delves deeper into the stories behind the art. All stories will be presented in both English and Spanish.
“Art has the power to connect us, and this project is about more than just aesthetics— it’s about community resilience and economic growth,” said Talent Business Alliance Board President, Kimber Parris. “By fostering a love for our local history through the arts, we’re also creating a draw that will benefit our whole community.”
In addition to the murals, the OSTA Project will feature an Interactive Art Tour that invites residents and visitors to explore the city’s many public art installations— from the Bee City Stage mosaic, to the Storm Drain artwork around town— these existing art locations will be catalogued for all to enjoy. Booklets detailing the tour will be available, alongside virtual experiences that enhance engagement.
"This project has the power to transform our community!” Said Talent Business Alliance Executive Director, Darby Ayers-Flood. “By integrating the OSTA project into our economic development initiatives focused on driving foot traffic to our small businesses, we can foster a vibrant community where our businesses can thrive."
As the OSTA project unfolds, residents can look forward to a community-wide celebration of creativity, connection, and cultural pride— painting the town with stories that will resonate for generations to come!
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