PHILIPSBURG:--- Be The Change Foundation is carrying out maintenance on its @ColorMeSXM mural project in Philipsburg and has launched a new website www.colormesxm.com with an updated map of the ‘Philipsburg Art Walk’.
Over the past six years, @ColorMeSXM has worked with local and regional artists to add 24 public artworks throughout Philipsburg. The project aims to beautify the capital, promote artists, share information, and encourage people to explore town through the self-guided Philipsburg Art Walk.
@ColorMeSXM operates largely on a volunteer and grant-to-grant basis, with support from artists, grant agencies, property owners, sponsors and community stakeholders. Recently, Be The Change Foundation reviewed the condition of the artworks and is approaching stakeholders for help with ongoing maintenance and upkeep. As part of these efforts, with support from Cultuurfonds Caribisch Gebied, the team is replacing damaged or missing informational plaques, and artist Zillah Duzon Hazel was able to refresh her mural. Alongside maintaining the existing artworks, @ColorMeSXM hopes to continue adding new public art to Philipsburg as grant funding allows.
Another important aspect of the project is creating opportunities for artists beyond the project itself, and several artists have confirmed an increase in mural commissions after taking part in @ColorMeSXM. To further support this, the updated website includes an artist directory where businesses and individuals can easily find artists' contact information and reach out directly for commissions and collaborations: www.colormesxm.com/directory.
The ‘Philipsburg Art Walk’ map has also been updated to include recently added artworks. The self-guided walking tour offers a free and accessible activity for residents and visitors of all ages, encouraging them to explore Philipsburg and the artworks at their own pace. Graphic designer Kevin Baly of Baly Designs designed the map. The updated map is easy to download from the website, allowing anyone to enjoy the walk at any time: www.colormesxm.com
You can follow updates on the project on Instagram: @ColorMeSXM