Calling all artists to submit a preview concept of art from two 3’ x 3’ interlocking steel sections shaped as a “Barn” in the space provided below.  A prototype of the size and shape of the art piece will be on display at Creative One Gallery (98 E. Division, Sparta) starting February 15, 2012.  This application should include a conceptual design plan of your artwork idea due by March 7^th, 2012 for a competitive judging round.  The top art concepts will be chosen and invited to actually create their concept for display.  The chosen artists will be able to pick up their media on April 16, 2012 at Creative One Gallery during normal business hours.   The finished art piece must be returned by May 31, 2012.  Artists that complete their art piece as presented on the concept application will receive a $200 stipend for materials as reimbursement after completion. The completed art piece will be on display in downtown Sparta from June through mid-September with recognition to the artist on site, online, and in promotion material. 

2012 Street Art Review Application (PDF) 

A high standard of quality will be required for artists to be invited to create their conceptual design enclosed.  Please use the space below to describe in detail or illustrate the materials and techniques you would use on the Street Art Review “Barn” art piece.  Additional points may be awarded by the judging panel for including aspects specific to Sparta’s history, history of agriculture, or including especially unique or creative aspects to the art piece. 

 Please attach additional pages to clearly define what materials will be used on the art piece if necessary.  All dates are subject to change.  All artwork becomes property of the Regional Arts Guild and Sparta Downtown Development Authority, may be used in photographs and promotions, and may be auctioned after the display time. 

Due to the positive response from the 2011 Apple Jam Sculpture project, the 2012 Street Art Review will be possible!  Over $2,700 was raised from the Apple Jam Auction in late 2012!

Art in Sparta Street Art Review *  PO Box 142 * Sparta, MI 49345*

P. 616-887-2190 * www.spartachamber.com

The Sparta Chamber of Commerce is inviting businesses interested in building their business success and working toward a more vibrant business community to not “Miss the Boat”.  The new marketing campaign will hit the streets on October 19 to invite businesses in the Sparta area to come to the annual Sparta Chamber of Commerce Meeting on Monday, November 7 to network with other businesses, learn about the recent accomplishments of the Chamber, and to see the upcoming 2012 plans for Sparta.  In addition, the Sparta Chamber will be giving businesses a discounted membership rate and discounted Business Expo entry fee for their attendance at the annual meeting.  “This is a fantastic opportunity for businesses to find out what is happening in Sparta, save money on their membership dues, and to network their business.  The networking value the Sparta Chamber member meetings have really shown some amazing value – knowing the owners and managers of other businesses in the community IS connected directly to referrals and more business,” said Kelly DeWindt, Chamber president. 

The annual meeting will also host the elections for the board of directors for the Chamber of Commerce.  Businesses should look for their invitation in the mail or contact the Sparta Chamber of Commerce office for more information.

 “Wanted,”Sparta Rugby coach, football coach and community leader, Greg Peak, announced at a recent Concert in the Park as a 1960’s era green couch rolled around the bandshell, “Old Runners.  Fast Couches.”  The crowd giggled and cheered as they looked on to see Rotary President Tom Dupont lying on the couch being pushed around on wheels and four team mates.  The J. Couch Race, Peak commented, is a unique and fun family fundraiser for the Lymphoma Society and local families affected by Lymphoma.  The race is scheduled as part of the Harvest on the Ridge Festival on September 17.  “The J. Couch Race will delight spectators with fast, funny, & uniquely created couches— all on wheels— as their five person teams race downtown Sparta on North Union Street,” Greg added to the crowd.

Peak was inspired by a friend, John Couch, who was recently diagnosed with Lymphoma to start a fundraiser for the Lymphoma Society.  The event came to a surprise to John.  “I had no idea what he was doing”, Couch said.  “One day, Greg called me up and asked, ‘Hey, can I use your name?’.  Greg is a pretty trustworthy guy, so my immediate response was ‘sure’.”  At that point Peak started explaining to Couch the details and inspiration behind for the J. Couch Race in honor of John Couch himself.  “He was talking 100 miles a minute and finally I simply said, ‘Greg, go ahead, I trust you.” 

With the go-ahead, Peak began pulling other community leaders and building excitement.  What started as a brainstorm by Greg Peak has turned into an event the community is rallying around.  Teams are already signing up to build their couches and talking about their creative costumes they are going to create for the 150 yard race.  Fundraising will include donations and support from businesses and families in addition to the crowd participants purchasing a vote for the People’s Choice and Best Decorated couches.  A traveling Trophy will be awarded to the “fastest” Couch Team.  Registration forms are located at www.spartachamber.com.