That’s the job of Chamblee’s new public arts coordinator!
Chamblee resident Teneisha Jones describes herself as “a super creative person. But I’m more of a crafter than an artist. Right now, I’m working on a big embroidery piece.” Along with personal projects, Jones recently took on the mantle of Chamblee’s first public arts coordinator. Here, she discusses her background and vision for the city.
What’s been your background that led to this new position?
I have an MFA from the Massachusetts College of Art and Design and have held several arts-related positions. My latest gig was working part-time for a paint and color company, creating projects to be photographed and filmed, and being the talking head on tutorial and marketing videos. For the last three years, I’ve also been part of the city’s public arts commission, and earlier this year, I became its chair.
Did you jump at the chance to take this job?
When the city announced the search, I was among the first to hear about it. But I didn’t immediately apply. One of the commission’s tasks was hiring someone for the position, and I didn’t know if that would be a conflict of interest for me. But when I told them I was interested, they encouraged me to apply. I’m glad I did. It’s an amazing opportunity that I couldn’t pass up. There is so much possibility in this role.
What are the job’s responsibilities?
I’ve been charged with beautifying the city with sculptures, paintings, murals and more. All day, every day, I’m speaking to artists and looking at large-scale projects, and I hope to see more public art installed faster and with better planning around maintaining it. A lot of things have fallen through the cracks. We have 13 murals, but we don’t have a maintenance plan for them. I’m here to find those holes, plug them and move us forward to become the kind of destination city that has public art people want to come and see.
Are you committed to working with local artists?
Yes! One of the first works that will be installed in October outside city hall on Broad Street is a sculpture by a local Atlanta artist. My intention is to use as many Georgia artists as possible. At this point, I see no reason to go outside—at least until we run out. So far, we’ve been lucky that we can stay almost hyperlocal because a good number of artists live right here in Chamblee.
Where else will we see artworks popping up?
Chamblee’s new city hall has a lot of blank wall space to fill. We’re working with interior designers to bring in local art and maybe even turn the space on the bottom floor into a gallery.
Why is public art important?
We’re really trying to make the city a place people want to come to. We already have Buford Highway, which is amazing for food, and wouldn’t it be great if we were also known for art? That’s a challenging and exciting prospect.
CITY OF CHAMBLEE PUBLIC ARTS COMMISSION
https://www.chambleega.com/parks_and_recreation/public_art_commission.php
@chamblee.ga
PHOTO: Joann Vitelli
