Organizers hope to ‘ignite the arts’ with event this week

WASHINGTON — The Washington Great Places Committee no longer receives periodic grant funding from the state. But its members hope to draw passion and creativity from community members at an event Wednesday night.

The “Ignite The Arts” event is both a celebration of Washington, and a “visioning event,” according to Mayor Millie Youngquist. She said the committee would ask attendees about their ideas about cultural goings-on in Washington.

“We want input from people, what they would like to see in our district in the future,” she said. “Projects, events; we’ve already received recognition from the state and we know that we’ve met a certain level, but we need to continue to try to improve.”

The one-off event will spark other brainstorms as the committee seeks grants from the Iowa Arts Council, and other possible funding sources.

Youngquist said she hoped especially to hear from local arts organizations and their supporters, and anyone from the community that appreciates the arts.

“Ignite the Arts” runs from 5 to roughly 7 p.m. Wednesday, Jan. 22 at Art Domestique in Washington. Youngquist said light refreshments would be provided.

“It’s something that people can come in, spend 15-20 minutes, or they can spend the whole time there … it’s very flexible,” Youngquist said. “It’s just a chance to meet other people and brainstorm together, have some good discussions, come up with new ideas.”

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