Dynamic outdoor art light projection by Mad Arts kicks off in January at The Parker
Funding Arts Broward (FAB) announced the launch of a new public art program titled, FAB Goes Public, with a dynamic outdoor artistic light display on the exterior wall of The Parker in Fort Lauderdale from January through April.
Made possible with the support of Funding Arts Broward, the membership-based organization dedicated to championing the arts in Broward, in collaboration with the Broward Center for the Performing Arts and the Broward Performing Arts Foundation, The Parker and Mad Arts, FAB Goes Public is FAB’s public art initiative designed to broaden appreciation for the arts within the community, reach a larger audience and benefit emerging artists by teaching them new skills and showcasing their work.
The impetus behind FAB Goes Public originated from the nonprofit’s recently published “Enriching the Arts Opportunities in Broward County’s Arts Community” report which identified key needs within Broward County’s arts community. A signature public art event was a top priority.
“Public art enhances our cultural landscape, engages communities, contributes to economic vitality and celebrates diversity,” said FAB President Mary Riedel. “We are thrilled to be able to bring this multi-month outdoor light projection to the community and at the same time support our local artists.”
Miami native, Marc Aptakin, founder and acting CEO of Mad Arts, is a longtime supporter of local arts initiatives, providing complimentary space for artists exhibits and now includes education. “As a former artist and photographer, I support the arts and artists in any way that I can,” said Aptakin. “I’m delighted to partner with FAB and host instructive workshops for aspiring artists.”
FAB worked alongside Sofia Bastidas, Mad Arts Curator, to identify the artists that will be showcased for FAB Goes Public. The artists include Rosanna Kalis and Miguel Gonzalez, who are both local artists working at the intersection of arts and technology. The project seeks to empower and elevate local artists by expanding their digital expertise to enhance their visibility. An important part of the program was to implement an educational initiative at Mad Arts. This program hopes to educate participants to explore their creativity and develop new technical skills, such as 3D projection mapping.
“With this immersive lighting experience at The Parker, we have a unique opportunity to weave in the visual arts with the performing arts,” said Lisa Kitei, president of the Broward Performing Arts Foundation and longtime FAB member. “We look forward to lighting up the sky at The Parker to further engage our community in the arts.”
The Parker is located at 707 NE 8th St. in Fort Lauderdale.
About Funding Arts Broward (FAB)
Funding Arts Broward (FAB) is a privately funded non-profit organization that provides visual arts and arts education grants to non-profit organizations in Broward. FAB funds an annual grant pool of up to $400k, through the support of its members, corporate partners, and allied foundations. FAB was founded by local artist and philanthropist Francie Bishop Good. More information about FAB can be found at fundingartsbroward.org. Follow us on Facebook at facebook.com/fundingartsbroward.
About Mad Arts
A non-profit organization founded in 2020, Mad Arts is a museum, community hub, and laboratory for art and technology. Facilitating visionary exhibitions and projects by individuals, collectives, and companies, Mad Arts operates out of its flagship headquarters, a 50,000-square-foot space in South Florida. More information about MAD can be found at yeswearemadarts.com.
About The Parker
The Parker is Fort Lauderdale’s iconic, heritage theater presenting concerts, comedy, dance, family fare and more. Beautifully renovated in 2021, The Parker offers audiences enhanced entertainment and hospitality experiences. The neo-classical Lillian S. Wells Hall features outstanding acoustics, unobstructed sightlines, wide rows and continental seating. The grand S. Donald Sussman Lobby, Bernie Peck’s Bar, the intimate Haller Club, and the private members’ lounge, The Place To Be, provide ample opportunities for audiences to enjoy culture, cocktails and conversation with every visit to the theater. For more information, visit ParkerPlayhouse.com
