The cognitive and spiritual benefits of urban green spaces are vital resources that pay great dividends toward community and social development, yet many of these spaces go largely unused.
We can point a finger at a lack of awareness or promotion for this, but the lack of interest may be the most alarming culprit. Speaking strictly from an artist’s perspective, there are few things more beneficial to the creative spirit than the restorative nature of these environments. They are an escape from the hustle and bustle of urban living, and offer an informal and approachable venue for artists and musicians to share their talents with the public.
No matter what your medium or subject matter, these spaces offer the perfect social platform for artists to mobilize, connect and construct or strengthen the foundation of their local arts community. There are no walls, no administrators, no formalities, and there is also nothing to lose.
These spaces are beautiful, they’re open, and most importantly, they’re available for anyone to use. If you or the people you know value these spaces, take advantage of them on a beautiful day, invite your friends and family to join you, let your community leaders and city officials know the importance of these spaces in future urban development.
Give it a try. We’re lucky to have these spaces and we’ve got more to gain from them than most of us realize.
Josh Christensen
Red Deer