Earlier this week, city officials and several downtown organizations announced a new program funded jointly by the city and building owners that have skywalk pass-throughs. Under the proposal, the current skywalk system will be rejuvenated with art from Iowa artists and photographers. The 3.5 mile skywalk will put on display thousands of works of Iowans and in the process become one of the largest art galleries in the country.

Everyone will benefit from this project. Local artist get to show off their work and businesses located on the skywalk level will see even more foot traffic than they do today. Des Moines has already been recognized for being a community that really appreciates art. The annual Arts Festival in Gateway Park and the nationally recognized Des Moines Art Center were just the beginning.

The announcement said that building owners would be able to hang either paintings, photography, or mixed media from Iowa artists in their portion of the skywalk. The City would provide the placards naming the art and artists for consistency through out the skywalk and would add additional 24-hour security for the skywalk. With the skywalks open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, Des Moines would be able to boast a 24-hour art gallery like none other throughout the country. For the areas that run through government owned buildings or city owned properties, the city would be looking for donations by local artist to fill those spaces. I know for one, that I will be submitting some of my photography.

With all the new foot traffic brought into the skywalk system, from visitors and tourism, even the local hotels and restaurants are on board for donations to the program. Installations of the first artwork is supposed to begin by the end of April.

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