Billings employs an artist-in-residence to integrate art and artists into civic life on a daily basis

Billings, Montana – Terri Porta, a native of Billings, has been chosen to collaborate with a project advisory committee to create a formal procedure to include art and artists in regular civic life.

According to a press release from the City, Porta will be tasked with advancing the goals of the City, including developing a strong and innovative public engagement process, fostering economic vitality, beautifying the built environment, and enhancing safety through the Mobilize the MAGIC City project.

At least two placemaking centers along Billings’ first bikeway, a feasibility report for a public art commission, and a playbook outlining the effective methods will all have been produced by Porta before the project’s conclusion.

Street art, a community gathering site, or a sidewalk inscribed with poetry are a few examples of potential placemaking hubs.

“Terri was selected from a talented pool of candidates due to her ability to work in diverse forms of public art, her excitement to engage with the public and allow them to inform her work, and her commitment to equity,” the City said. “Terri describes herself as an outgoing artist and is excited to get to know the community better. She has created vibrant public art pieces across our city and region ranging from murals to interactive sculptures.”

“I have a passion for public art and I love my community and I love seeing the two come together,” Terri says.

The National Endowment for the Arts Our Town grant is responsible for funding a portion of this project.

Thanks to the award, Porta has a one-year contract with the City of Billings Planning and Community Services Department to serve as an artist-in-residence.