Since 2009, the Shenandoah Arts Council (ShenArts) has partnered with the Old Town Advancement Commission (OTAC) to create an outdoor gallery in the historic district of downtown Winchester, Virginia. Artists of all ages are invited to participate in this juried art competition. Selected works are reproduced on banners that hang on light posts throughout the downtown area. The Museum of the Shenandoah Valley provides support for this program as the host sponsor, displaying the original works of art in its Art in the Halls program.

Why ArtScape in Winchester?
The objective of Artscape is to create an outdoor gallery experience in the heart of the community. The colorful banners add interest and intrigue to the downtown streetscape, encouraging pedestrians and vehicle traffic to slow down and enjoy the display. Each banner showcases local artists and their sponsors, highlighting the creativity and talent of artists who live and work in the region and those that show their support through sponsorship.

How does it work?
Interested artists submit work for consideration to ShenArts. These works are reviewed and selected by a jury. Participating artists range in age and skill level, although many are amateur and professional level. The chosen works are professionally photographed and designed for printing on vinyl banners. The title of the work and name of the artist are featured on the banner, along with the name of the sponsor for that banner. At the end of the show, the banners are removed and given to the sponsor. The sponsor does not receive reproduction rights to the work. However, they are encouraged to display the banner in their place of business, highlighting their support for enriching the community through public art programs.

Why should YOU sponsor a banner?

• Your business name appears on both sides of banner.
• Your business name listed in annual ArtScape brochure.
• Your business promoted on Old Town Winchester and ShenArts websites.
• Your business receives recognition at ArtScape reception and activities.
• Upon end of exhibit, you receive and own your sponsorship banner(s).
• Your business will be recognized as a leader supporting community art by visitors and residents.
• Sponsor a banner in honor or memory of a loved one. 
• Give the gift of a banner sponsored in the recipient’s name.

SIGN UP BELOW @ $445 PER BANNER!

ARTSCAPE ARTIST/SPONSOR SCHEDULE

March 5 – sponsor/artist submissions deadline
March 11-12– artists notified of selection
March 14-18 – original artwork delivered to ShenArts/Photographer
March 19-April 2 – artwork photographed and digital transfer to banner will begin
April 11 – original art hung at MSV; opening reception shortly thereafter
May – banner production completed
June/July – banners installed, brochure production begins
August – Artist/Sponsor Reception/Mixer, brochures distributed downtown and to sponsors and artists
September – The Great ArtScape Scavenger Hunt Saturday event
October – First Friday ArtScape Art on the Mall Artist Walk event; meet the ArtScape artists, live art demos
TBD – Additional ArtScape events