Mural project by renowned artist to give downtown some color

James Chase with one of his murals completed in Manchester. (Courtesy photo)

ROCHESTER - The Rochester Museum of Fine Arts has commissioned New Hampshire artist James Chase to create and install public art in the city's historic district. Most of the installations will take place on boarded windows and alley separators in Factory Court, North Main Street, and Wyandotte Walkway.

The project, which was supported by the Office of Economic and Community Development, of the City of Rochester, is expected to be completed and installed by Sunday.

Chase is currently the Director of Community Education and Visual Arts Faculty at the New Hampshire Institute of Art. He has exhibited internationally merging painting, printmaking and photography with social engagement practices. He has been featured in more than 50 art exhibitions since 2009. Recent solo exhibitions include Echoes with the Rochester Museum of Fine Arts and Kill The Lights at South Plains College in Levelland, Tex.

"I am honored to have been commissioned by the Rochester Museum of Fine Arts for a public art project. It says a lot when local organizations and municipalities invest in the arts. This project will hopefully further the appreciation for public art and help beautify the downtown." said Chase. "The opportunity to interact and give back to the community through the power of art is important to me. I truly believe art builds community."

Chase recently completed a large scale mural project in Manchester, N.H. similar to the ones he has planned for downtown Rochester.

"My aim with the mural project in Rochester is to enhance a visual sense of vibrancy that is already growing in the downtown area. With businesses and organizations like the Rochester Museum of Fine Arts, Rochester Opera House, Revolution, and Fresh Vibes all making substantial investments in the downtown area, these murals will hopefully become another piece of the conversation."

Economic Development Manager Karen Pollard added, "It has been proven that one of the most powerful economic engines in the city is from the arts. We are thrilled to support public art throughout our community."

Chase has been working on the murals over the course of the summer. The official date of installation will take place on Sunday, and there will be a small outdoor reception in Wyandotte Walkway on Oct. 27 from 4:30-6:30 p.m. This project is sponsored by the Department of Economic Development (City of Rochester, NH) and Rochester Main Street. Visit www.rochestermfa.org for more information.