Arts All Around
By Tonya Prater
In Richland County, inspiration flows as abundantly as its rivers, with a rich offering of the arts that encompasses everything from public art to art centers and theaters.
Eye-Catching Art
Public art brightens the streets of downtown Mansfield. Stroll the brick- lined alleys to discover colorful murals painted by local artists, from popular angel wings to the postcard-style mural that pays homage to local landmarks. But the colorful pieces don’t end there — you’ll find the award-winning Buckeye Imagination Museum boasts a whimsical T-Rex bollard, a nod to the playful fun awaiting inside. The KV Market mural is another must on The Shawshank Trail
— capture a photo with Red as he bags groceries at this memorable photo-op. The creativity continues at North Lake Park, where you can take a short walk or scenic 18-mile bike ride for more artsy photo ops. Keep an eye out for the larger-than-life Chef Jacques standing near I-71, one of the world’s tallest bobbleheads at 35-feet, before you’re beamed up by the Bellville UFO.
Admire the children’s sculpture on the lawn of the Mansfield Art Center and step inside to admire the collection and find gifts in the gallery shop. Take home a piece of art from Galeria Ekkles in downtown Mansfield, where your purchase helps to support local and regional artists.
Center Stage
Explore the charm of historic theaters or the intimacy of a modern venue for an unforgettable front row experience to the theatrical arts all around Richland County. The venerable Renaissance Theatre, built in 1928, offers a classic experience in its ornate, 1,400-seat auditorium, hosting a variety of performances from Broadway musicals to classical concerts to national artists. Theatre 166 features a dynamic ‘black box’ setting. This adaptable space allows each performance to be an immersive, intimate experience, perfect for innovative and experimental works.
Mansfield Playhouse, Ohio’s second oldest community theater, features a 269-seat main stage and is known for its quality shows, affordability and intimate setting. It leverages the talents of local residents to enhance the cultural landscape and strengthen communal bonds through the power of theater. Richland Academy of the Arts offers diverse programs in dance, music,
visual arts, theater and martial arts. It’s a place where both visitors and locals can discover and hone their artistic talents in a welcoming, professional setting.
Space To Create
Discover ample opportunities to develop new skills, along with a wealth of options for artistic creation and active participation. Take a class that lasts a single day or a weekend at the Mansfield Art Center. The newly built, cutting-edge education wing offers a diverse selection of art classes that range from drawing to glassblowing to stained glass to ceramics for all skill levels. Visit during the annual Crowfest, held each October, when flocks of crows roost in the 30-acre woods next to the MAC. The theme carries through with creative crow-themed art and creations.
The Mansfield Richland County Public Library features traditional programming to encourage education and creativity. Experience their traditional and make- and-take programs or use your library card to borrow from the “Library of Things” collection where you’ll find banjos, cake pans and board games that encourage thinking and creativity.