TWO NEW FALL FESTIVALS: ARCHTOBER AND URBAN DESIGN WEEK

Labor Day, on Monday, marks the end of a busy summer. We see the fall cultural event calendar filling up everywhere. cultureNOW is partnering with many organizations this season to collaborate on programs, tours and activities. On September 15th, The Institute for Urban Design will launch the first ever Urban Design Week in New York City. This is a new public festival created to engage New Yorkers in the fascinating and complex issues of the public realm, and to celebrate the streetscapes, sidewalks, and public spaces at the heart of city life.

Two weeks later, Archtober, Architecture and Design Month in New York City, begins. For the next 31 days, there will be special tours, lectures, films and exhibitions that focus on the importance of architecture and design in urban life. Special access to sites - and their architects - will raise awareness of the important role of design in our city. As one of the 31 partners, we plan to feature highlights of both festivals online and on our apps.

Abby Suckle, President

FEATURED ART COLLECTION:

New York is not the only city celebrating the arts this month. New Orleans will launch Arts Week on September 17th, a new festival which will showcase the city's rich cultural heritage and celebrate the 25th Anniversary of the Percent for Art Program.

CITY OF NEW ORLEANS -
PERCENT FOR ART COLLECTION

Since Hurricane Katrina, the Arts Council of New Orleans which administers the public art collection has restored twelve major exterior sculptures throughout every area of the City. Synchronicity and Spirit House are the largest yet to be undertaken.

Public Art events during Arts Week include the re-lighting of Spirit House on the 18th at 6pm where there will be a community celebration.

Later in the week, on Wednesday evening, there will be a gallery opening highlighting the 25 year history of the Percent For Art Program at the Arts Council's new Exchange Centre Gallery, 935 Gravier St.

This will be followed on Friday evening by the dedication for Birth of A Muse by Kim Bernadas, the first new piece commissioned by the Percent For Art Program since Katrina.

www.artscouncilofneworleans.org