Public art brings beauty, economic growth

Dick Davis, the California benefactor who supports the Zacatlan mural artists beautifying Storm Lake, delivered this message Sunday at the ribbon cutting ceremony for the muralists’ fourth public art mural here, which is located at Buena Vista University.

I’m Dick Davis, sponsor of public art, cultural exchanges and the Zacatlan artists. Seventeen artists created these murals over a period of four months. Four artists — Mary Carmen, Oswaldo, Erika and Gael — flew to Iowa on April 12 to install a very large jigsaw puzzle!

Public art brings beauty to neighborhoods, towns, cities and now Buena Vista University. It often increases foot traffic and has the effect of inspiring others and encourages local businesses.

Public art has many forms, nature and man-made. Gardens, parks (whoever planted the Storm Lake Historic Tree Museum connected tree species with historic people and their accomplishments).

Our specialty is mosaic murals. There are painted murals, sculptures, crafts, theater, music, dance, parades and pageantry. Art attracts visitors and what I believe is number one art for many — it’s food, cuisine.

What is needed is critical mass, enough to make a difference to attract many. Like putting all the auto dealers on the same block. Put the art within walking distance.

Storm Lake has so many ethnicities, there is a wide range of cuisine possibilities.

The Zacatlan artists have transformed their town of Zacatlan de las Manznas. Tourism thrives and they receive free publicity…via Smartphone cameras in the hands of visitor. I’m sure BVU students will also give the murals free publicity. Zacatan has benefited attracting new restaurants, cafes, gift shops, craft sellers. Over 100 are now located in one zone. There are new BnBs, new hotels, tours and tour guides. Property values have risen.

Artists didn’t know they were artists until Isiah Zagar came to Zacatlan and offered to train volunteers! Now there are commissions coming from other municipalities and churches.

I’m hoping you will support and participate in your community, support public art of all types, which makes for better social environment, business opportunities, plus low stress and longer life. We are working with Witter Art Gallery, which needs your attendance and support.

In addition, twice a week, check out Art Cullen, Pulitzer Prize winner, for investigative reporting for the Storm Lake Times Pilot, “The voice of the people.”