On September 9, OKC Beautiful closed down part of Classen Boulevard. Rather than being filled with traffic, it was filled with live music, food trucks, and community.
Dancin’ in the Street was a community event organized to celebrate the installation of "Birdwatching OKC Lightning Thunder Dance Party," an artwork by Joe Slack and OKC Beautiful's 50th Anniversary project.
We were joined by 200+ community members for an event filled with live music by SquadLive, food trucks, drinks, and dancing. The event was held in the southbound lane of Classen Boulevard, from 7th Street to 9th Street, the location of Joe Slack's artwork.
When asked to reflect on the two-block mural, Slack said, “I feel very proud of the accomplishment. When I look at the piece it just makes me smile, which is the best possible result. I hope that it contributes to a furthering sense of pride and community in the area. You can’t have a thriving, thinking, productive, and happy community without the contribution of public art. I also hope it makes people smile and makes their commute just a little bit better than it was before.”
OKC Beautiful brought together members of the public to attend this celebration of public art and community.
“We know that public art and beautiful spaces support a sense of neighborhood history, culture and helps drive economic vitality, said Lisa Synar, Executive Director of OKC Beautiful. “With the support of Robbie Kienzie, Arts and Cultural Affairs Liaison for the City of Oklahoma City, we were able to commission this unique piece of art for the community to enjoy.”
The event was sponsored by Classen Inn and Prairie Artisan Ales.
Thank you to everyone who joined us for this community event!