Fresno, a community immersed in a widely art motivated culture. So, what is it that the fine arts contributes to this vast community other than the usual galleries, festivals and studios? Anyone can look around and see the obvious places that fine art has played a role in but what about those that are not so clear? Does the world of fine art play a part in more of the city than a first glance can reveal? Yes, more than many are even aware of.
How does art define the city? As all good questions this one comes with an answer that consists of several layers. People, small businesses, buildings, neighborhoods, etc. all create the heart of a place. Here is where the collective personality and flavor of a city comes alive. Every city has a downtown or a old town side built up from when the city was younger. Take some time out of the day to come explore and surround yourself in the character of the city. Examine the one of a kind architecture from a time when art was integrated into architectural design adding style and beauty instead of thinking only of the structural outcome. More often than not fine art is not even considered when designing the interior or exterior of an office building. These businesses should follow in the foot steps of the smaller counter parts and use artworks as an extension of the company's character and interests.
Nearly all from the Valley have a strong sense of the arts and a knowledge of how to use it to amplify their everyday life. A beautiful example of this is scattered among the city's people and throughout the neighborhoods they call home. Take a drive and discover the colors and contrasts of these neighborhoods. It is common knowledge, among artists, that different colors help describe a score of personalities. Is it any wonder that the colors one chooses for both inside and outside of the house offers a taste of the person's character? People use the arts not only in their homes but in any personal space they call their own. A bedroom, a backyard, a work space, a studio or any space that they have made their own. It is in these very places that the story of these individuals comes into the light and the history of the city is found.
The influences of art are all around this beautiful city if one knows where to look for it. In the galleries, festivals and studios are found the bold and vibrant influences demanding to be seen. Take a second deeper look and see the soft and subtle influences of the people themselves and see the city in a whole new hue of light. Don't settle for what is seen on the surface, take the time to put some thought and effort into seeing just how deep the influence of the arts flows within this fine city.
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