The Corridor Project at CityArts
Art has been in my family for generations. Whether it was through music, crafting, painting, or sketching—the Swygerts and the Drischlers have done it all. This week, I was able to witness a beautifully engaging project with my family, that couldn’t have occurred without generous sponsors, an amazing billboard company (Clear Channel Outdoor!) and last but not least, some incredibly talented artists.
Admiring Natalie&Juliet Romeo DiIenno Photography
As an artist, family has always been at the root of my inspiration. My parents have supported me through every painting in high school, art show, wedding piece, and more (my mom statically claps with joy every time without fail). I couldn’t be where I am or who I am, without these people standing by my side.
Craig Swygert, my dad, holding a newspaper
My parents actually met in an art class, their last semester of college in 1990. My dad started his career attempting to be an artist. Of course, back then, it was much more difficult to earn an income through digital art in comparison to today. He ended up going into the billboard industry, and worked his way up to President - Central Florida. Sometimes, I feel like I’m living my dream out for him as an artist.
My Dad and Clear Channel Outdoor helped create this unique display of billboards to celebrate these selected artists. Each artwork will be featured on a printed billboard in the Orlando region and also continuously rotate on digital billboards throughout the month of January.
Art has a lot of meaning for different people—it’s transformative and versatile. Looking through May Bel’s Photography and her self-portraits evoked a sense of awe and wonder with a hint of darkness. Simone Wiig was another favorite, with her work illuminating nostalgia with Downtown Orlando depicted through her artistic lens.
I hope whatever art means to you, you grasp onto the love and support you get from it. As Barbara Hartley said, the executive Director at Downtown Arts District, “The starving artist term needs to go.” She is right. Instead, I hope we can change it to the artist with a purpose because after seeing many creators and artists next to their artwork with a proud smile on their face, I realize that art is more than a means to put money on the table. It’s a sense of pride, a place we remember love, a way to evoke emotions, an outlet for our struggles—a place we find purpose.
You can now see these pieces of artwork for yourself at CityArts in Orlando, Florida, or on a billboard. Stop by and support artists who put their heart and soul into these pieces.
Red and white wine circulating the rooms of colorful art, along with some delicious hors d'oeuvres that were passed around. Artist in background: @GSE_ARTS
All participating Artists:
Arthur Dawson
Ashley Taylor
Boy Kong
Robert Banjo
Charles Hodges
Chris Robb
C. Stanley Creative
Crummy Gummy
DNL HRS
Erica Greear
Ericka Sobrack
Gabriela Esteban
Haley McCormick
John Baker
Justin Luper
Kira Gondeck-Silvia
KYLE
Leah Sandler
Luce Sky
Mary Bel
Maureen Hudas
Natasha Harrison
Peterson Guerrier
Philip Ringler
Ryan Semple
Samantha Shumaker
Simona Wiig
SKIP
Tic Bowen
Wayne Grant