We are fundraising for our FINALE – Winter, by Mary Jo Ben-Nun. Please help us spread the word, and chip in if you can. Even one dollar helps! Thank you for your participation in the local art scene.
Read the article on the lawsut victory at PR News Wire
This is not just a victory for this project, but for freedom of speech and expression everywhere. As a result of this lawsuit, the local government has repealed the unconstitutional art ban.
~It is my hope that this will send a greater message that local governments do not have the right to control or regulate artistic expression, creativity, or speech of their residents. I also hope that this helps more people realize how important art is to any community
~Despite the fact that this took place in the small village of Greenwood Lake, it is an issue of national importance. If the village had been allowed to institute its Art Ban, even temporarily, people who were not directly impacted by it would feel its consequences. This is clearly demonstrated by the overwhelming amount of support I have received from artists and residents far and wide.
~Of course, I would have preferred to have resolved this without a lawsuit, and I tried to reason with the Village on numerous occasions. Much to my dismay, they refused to budge, leaving me with no choice but to pursue legal action and stand up for everyone’s first amendment rights.
~I’m excited that this project raised awareness of the need for art in every community, and that it brought together so many local artists and residents. These were my main goals to begin with. Now I look forward to continuing to work with the community to move ahead together for the benefit of art and artists everywhere. (See the new TAG Forum Tab above)
~More great news: Thanks to the recommendations of Greenwood Lake’s Revitalization Committee, the mural was printed on removable panels, and was able to be an emissary for our village at Newburgh’s brand new Railroad Playhouse. We were invited to display it at Readnex Poetry Squad‘s 4th Annual Hip Hop Seasons Festival, which ran April 21-23.
~Art for all, and all for art!