Find local gems at the RISD Museum this season

There should be more of a battle-cry in Rhode Island of, “Buy local!”… and locally made. One of our most prestigious organizations, The Rhode Island School of Design (RISD) Museum is pushing in that direction during the coming months by promoting the local creative scene in Rhode Island.

The creative force behind it all is Deborah Clemons, associate educator, public programs, at the RISD Museum, who created a marvelous opportunity for people to visit the museum and experience a broad cast of performers, visual artists and crafts-people. Local makers of you name it will be there in full force. The museum built a separate performance-presentation One Room at the entrance foyer where these little creative miracles, which will be scheduled and presented most days for the next several months, will happen. The gala opening ceremony took place in 95-degree-plus temperatures on July 18, but the crowds still gathered in block party tradition on Benefit Street. Spirits were not dampened by the heat wave; in fact, the enthusiasm heated up as well.

The energy source for this project is Deborah Clemons, a marvelous, humble, brilliant, lovely and intelligent person. She is spearheading the drive to bring local talent front and center by setting a schedule of events that will be the envy any such undertaking. An army of amazing talent, and art-attack, will be viewed by a virtual army of museum goers and art enthusiasts. Check out the talent and watch for minor schedule adjustments here and there. Keep in mind: this is a complex set of organizing maneuvers.

Review the museum’s schedule to see what is in store. I believe this project will be the highlight of many local creative careers for months to come, and it is a terrific opportunity for many art followers to see great works into the fall. Don’t miss it! You will see me there for sure.

The RISD Museum has entrances at 224 Benefit Street and 20 North Main Street in Providence, RI. For hours and admission information, call 401-454-6500 or visit risdmuseum.org. Follow the RISD Museum at Facebook.com/RISDMuseum.