Questions and Answers
How did the project get started?
A group of individuals closely involved with the project to restore the lakes wanted to memorialize and recognize the efforts of the project team and community. They met to brainstorm ideas and ultimately decided on creating a mural and walkway that would feature beautiful artwork celebrating their achievements in Sanford.
What are the details of the project?
The project consists of two main components – an artistic mural and the accompanying greenspace, walkway, and signage.
The mural design will serve as a vibrant artwork that reflects the collaboration, resiliency, commitment, and tireless dedication of those involved in restoring the lakes in Sanford. A small team will lead a "call for artists" to ensure the mural is both inspirational and fitting for the project.
The creation of the mural is entrusted to the artist. The project team will provide artists with a general theme, the emotions the mural should evoke, and specific parameters. After reviewing several proposed designs, the team will select the one that best aligns with the project requirements.
The greenspace and walkway/signage will offer a historical perspective on the dams, the flood of 2020, and the ongoing efforts to restore both the lakes and the community in Sanford. Final details regarding the specific content of the signage are still to be determined.
How are funds being managed?
Funds will go directly to a Project Fund at the Midland Area Community Foundation, which has several fund types to enable community advancement. A Project Fund is perfect for teams working on a short-term community project, such as creating a mural or showcasing local artwork in Sanford, because the Foundation will manage all accounting, tax receipts, and donor communication, allowing the team to focus on fundraising. Explore this link to see other Project Funds managed by the Foundation.
What will happen if you raise more funds than needed?
Extra funding will be allocated for the long-term maintenance of the mural and the surrounding walkway, ensuring that this artwork in Sanford remains vibrant for years to come.
What will happen if you do not raise enough funds?
The project team will continue with fundraising efforts until all opportunities to receive contributions for the mural artwork in Sanford have been exhausted. If funds are still lacking, the team will evaluate how best to use the available funds on hand.
Will recognition projects be implemented at any of the other dam sites?
Although the mural will represent all of the dams, this project team is focused on commissioning a recognition project specifically at the Sanford site. Its proximity to a public park makes it an ideal location to implement an educational/historical walkway that chronicles the history of the dams. The façade of the Sanford building is also an optimal spot for the artwork, as it will have high visibility and is easily accessible from the village park while being visible from the county park.