Fifth Third Bank & B!G Art Showcase Creative Transformation
Greater Cincinnati is a vibrant community driven by changemakers who continuously seek opportunities to foster growth and development. This spirit of innovation will shine brightly during the upcoming BLINK Festival, where Fifth Third Bank will transform the historic Fountain Square into a captivating art and light installation, celebrating the region's entrepreneurial spirit and challenging visitors to envision its future.
Innovative Art Installation During BLINK Festival
As the nation’s largest outdoor public art and light festival, BLINK welcomes millions to experience the art that fills the streets of Cincinnati. This year, Fifth Third Bank is collaborating with B!G Art to present OPEN on Fountain Square, an extraordinary showcase that honors the transformative impact of the bank within the community and inspires the rising generation of innovators to pave their paths toward progress.
Community Involvement in Artistic Expression
The installation will not only feature original works by Fifth Third and B!G Art, but will also include visuals and videos submitted by local artists, ensuring a wide representation of the creative heart of the community. Melissa Stevens, executive vice president and chief marketing officer at Fifth Third, expressed, "We know that the individuals and organizations we support all have the potential to make an impact. Throughout our history, we've been opening doors of opportunity for changemakers who wish to create a better community through collaboration and innovation."
BLINK: A Celebration of Art and Community
The BLINK Festival is set to captivate audiences over a four-day span across 30 blocks, drawing in around 2 million attendees. Fifth Third Bank has been an enthusiastic partner of this event since 2019, contributing unique art installations that enliven Fountain Square and emphasize the core values of creativity and innovation.
Highlighting What Makes Cincinnati Unique
Tim Elsbrock, president of Fifth Third’s Greater Cincinnati region, remarked, "OPEN on Fountain Square will showcase the blend of creativity and innovation that defines our city. We take pride in delivering this distinctive installation to the heart of downtown, where our employees spend their daily lives." This installation is a testament to Fifth Third's commitment to nurturing a supportive environment for creativity and artistic expression.
Returning Partnership with B!G Art
This collaboration marks Fifth Third’s second venture with B!G Art, a highly regarded interactive public art collective. The duo previously brought to life ElectriFi on Fountain Square in 2022. B!G Art specializes in creating immersive large-scale art installations that foster community engagement. Paul Magnuson, chief imagineer at B!G Art, noted, "We are constantly amazed by the creativity and passion Fifth Third infuses into our collaborations. Creating artistic opportunities resonated strongly with our team. Our preferred projects are those that unite artists and the public."
Accessibility Through Art
Magnuson continued, "Our partnership with Fifth Third is exciting because events like BLINK help break down financial barriers to art access. This accessibility supports both artists and audiences, enriching the overall cultural experience in Cincinnati."
Overview of the Installation Features
OPEN on Fountain Square will comprise several key elements designed to enhance visitors’ experiences:
- The Arch: A magnificent 27-foot-tall archway adorned with over 1.2 million LED pixels will create a canvas spanning more than 3,000 square feet. Visitors can enjoy custom animations and videos portraying local artwork, aiming to reshape perceptions of living, working, and playing in Cincinnati.
- The Gates: Visitors will navigate through winding arrangements of 60 LED bar gateways, each measuring 7-feet-by-3-feet, featuring programmable lighting, symbolizing pathways to new opportunities while complementing the arch's programming.
- The Doors: An array of interactive doors along Fountain Square will each reveal an LED canvas filled with dynamic digital images and playful animations, representing new beginnings that encourage exploration and success.
- The Tunnel: In collaboration with 3CDC and local artist Dan Shields, an overhead net woven with vibrant yarn will create an inviting tunnel-like structure, lit by black lights for a unique ambiance.
This immersive installation will remain open to the public throughout the duration of the BLINK Festival. Fountain Square stands prominently at the crossroads of Fifth and Vine streets in downtown Cincinnati, awaiting to welcome attendees.
About Fifth Third Bank
Fifth Third Bank is a longstanding institution known for its innovative approach to banking, having served individuals, families, businesses, and communities since 1858. The bank is dedicated to enhancing lives through exceptional financial services and creating meaningful community impact. With numerous accolades, including recognition from Ethisphere as one of the World’s Most Ethical Companies, Fifth Third is committed to earning the trust of its customers, employees, and shareholders alike.
About B!G Art
B!G Art is dedicated to creating inspiring experiences through interactive and immersive art installations. They are committed to pushing the boundaries of creativity and leveraging technology to deliver engaging, large-scale projects that inspire and captivate audiences. B!G Art is passionate about fostering connections between art and the public, making creativity accessible to all.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the purpose of the installation by Fifth Third and B!G Art?
The installation aims to celebrate the entrepreneurial spirit of the Greater Cincinnati community while inspiring new opportunities for growth and creativity among its residents.
When is the BLINK Festival taking place?
While specific dates were not mentioned, the BLINK Festival typically occurs over several days to showcase various art installations.
What features are highlighted in the open art installation?
The installation will include an impressive arch, interactive gates, vibrant doors, and a unique tunnel, denoting innovation and opportunities.
How does Fifth Third Bank contribute to the local community?
Fifth Third Bank supports local changemakers by promoting community projects, providing innovative financial services, and engaging in partnerships that enhance culture and creativity.
Who can participate in the experience at the BLINK Festival?
The installation is designed for all members of the community, ensuring accessibility to art and creativity for everyone.
