Local Artists Interpret The Big Table through work
To kick off and promote this year’s Big Table, taking place all across central Ohio on August 28, The Columbus Foundation commissioned local artists to interpret what coming together as a community means to them. Through these mixed-media tablecloths, artists showcased their creative talent and their love for the Columbus community—in hopes to inspire all residents (like YOU) to participate in a community conversation on August 28.
This “Big Tablecloth” was completed by Miles Balfour. Miles shared, “As I travel around Columbus day to day, I see houses and projects being developed such as the new apartments being built in the Milo-Grogan neighborhood. Seeing this development has made me think of the houses and communities that have either been neglected or not as eye catching as the developing parts of Columbus from the Short North to German Village. I wanted to paint structures and houses from both the developing and neglected communities in an effort to start the conversation of gentrification, city development, and what we should do for our communities or what we haven’t done or neglect. As a resident of the Linden community, gentrification is something that will soon have an effect on me; my own feelings towards gentrification are conflicted, I am aware of the change and progress that comes with it as well as the reality it can force families and people from their homes and communities due to a rise in the cost of living. I hope through what I’ve created I can allow a conversation that reflects on how we can lift others as we enrich our communities.”
The Big Table brings neighbors, friends, and strangers together for open, thoughtful conversations that will spark new relationships and new ways for working together to strengthen our community. Any and all are welcome and encouraged to host or join a Big Table conversation! Learn how you can participate.
We’ll be sharing highlights of the other “Big Tablecloths” leading up to The Big Table day on August 28. In the meantime, share your excitement and your past Big Table experiences with #TheBigTable!
