The Greater Columbus Arts Council has created an arts passport to encourage people to get out and explore arts, cultural, and entertainment events in Columbus this fall.
The Columbus Makes Art Passport is a free booklet that has over 60 arts experiences where curious art tourists can get an artist-designed sticker for their passport. The program will run from September 1 through October 31.
Many of the stops are free and there is no purchase needed at any location to collect passport stamps. While some of the stops are one-time events, there are several which can be visited throughout the program.
Once the passports are filled up, passport holders can redeem them online for prizes including, signed artist prints, tickets to events, restaurant gift cards, even a one-night stay at the LeVeque Hotel and a private screening of a movie of winner’s choice at Gateway Film Center.
“It’s been hard financially and emotionally for arts organizations and the public during the past 18 months,” said Jami Goldstein, vice president of marketing, communications and events for the Greater Columbus Arts Council. “Knowing that the arts can heal both our souls and the community, we wanted to find a fun way to encourage people back into arts spaces and experiences.”
Passports can be picked up from multiple locations around Columbus beginning in mid-August. The Arts Council is paying for all costs associated with the program, including paying the artists behind the unique passport stickers.
“We wanted to create a program that didn’t put a financial burden on arts organizations or the general public,” said Goldstein. “The passports are free. While not every arts experience is free, many organizations already offer free admission or have a free admission day, so people can tour many stops for free and redeem their stickered passports for prizes at no cost. Many participating organizations are also including a special offer to passport holders, and we have once again seen the enormous generosity of our community as organizations, businesses, restaurants and individuals donate prizes.”
Participants can begin redeeming passports for prizes on September 28. To find passport distribution spots or check out the artists, you can visit ColumbusMakesArt.com/passport.