Last Saturday, I was able to discover and enjoy the art that is spread throughout Ithaca. A refreshing experience since most art is locked away with only those who have money holding a key. Art is an integral part of our culture, of any culture. Art can express someone’s hopes and dreams, their fears and worries; a piece of art can speak with words louder and clearer than any one person could do themselves. That’s why art being accessible to all is of the utmost importance. This idea of free public art however is not so easily accepted by all. Our idea of what art is must expand.

What I also learned on this tour was that artists who are willing to go to jail because they refuse to let their voice be drained out by those who have limited interpretations of what art is and where art should be and who should have access to art, are inspiring. They live and sacrifice for the idea that art should be available to all.

I wish that more towns could display the same amount of art that Ithaca does. It truly does transform a community into more than just it’s bricks and stones. Art helps to make Ithaca what it is. Art in Ithaca represents the voices of the people who live in Ithaca.