The City of Bellevue is on the hunt for an artist, one capable of encapsulating the spirit of their commitment to diversity. This search for artistry arrives hand-in-hand with Bellevue's efforts to refine and reimagine its Diversity Advantage Plan, a blueprint designed to infuse government policies and services with a recognition of the community's varied backgrounds, as per the City of Bellevue.
As part of the celebration for the plan, which has been informed by over two years of community engagement, the chosen artist will receive a $4,000 stipend to create a 2D visual piece. The artwork will not only be incorporated into the plan itself, but it will also be showcased on promotional materials and enjoy a rotating exhibit at City Hall and community centers, City of Bellevue officials announced.
According to the City of Bellevue's official website, Dr. Linda Whitehead, Bellevue’s chief diversity, equity, inclusion and inclusion officer, remarked that the Diversity Advantage Plan update will, "help our community to see themselves reflected in the policies and services their government offers." She further emphasized the unique ability of art to "illuminate that plan by reflecting the unique lived experiences of our community members and building a bridge to understanding."
This artistic initiative underscores Bellevue's evolving philosophy, rooted, in a recognition that to govern is to see a people in full, with all their hues, creeds and origins not merely acknowledged but celebrated. Artists interested in this venture are encouraged to detail their personal connection to diversity and inclusivity in their application submissions. The application deadline for potential visionaries is set for Thursday, June 6.
