America in Bloom accolades go to Lewes in Bloom, Art In Bloom

The City of Lewes was recently named the most beautiful city in its population category by America in Bloom, a national organization that empowers communities to beautify and improve the overall quality of life through programs, grants, resources and other tools.

America in Bloom judges compiled a 30-page report on observations made during their two-day tour in July of Lewes gardens, historical sites, individual residences, urban forestry, flowers and overall community. To read the report, go to lewesinbloom.org.

Special mention went to Art in Bloom and other nonprofit entities within the community through America in Bloom’s Recognition by Advisors of an Item of Special Note.

In their report, advisors wrote, “Art in Bloom has grown out of the Lewes in Bloom organization and has undertaken a number of very successful and attractive public art installations. The Silent Sentinels of Lewes, installed on the grounds of the Lewes Public Library along the Georgetown-Lewes Trail, was the first installation sponsored by the Lewes in Bloom/Art in Bloom Committee. ... The Menhaden Mural near Otis Smith Park pays homage to the fishing heritage that once sustained the economy of the city. The Lewes Drawbridge Mosaic Mural continues that celebration of the maritime community and creates additional interest to the bridge, complementing the beautiful baskets of floral displays that drape the bridge railing. ... Substantial and lasting art of this caliber will only enhance its surroundings and have a more profound meaning to residents and visitors.”

Part of the value of participating in a program such as America in Bloom is the recommendations America in Bloom makes to improve or enhance existing community assets.

Their recommendations for Art in Bloom were:

• Consider soliciting artists to submit proposals for appropriate and thoughtful art installations at strategic locations throughout the community, such as the [Cape Spirit sculpture] that has been designed for Canalfront Park
• Also consider developing a mural program to build upon the success of the menhaden mural
• Poll the community to get a sense of what types of history they would like to see portrayed through public art
• Also consider Art in Bloom hosting a booth at the farmers market to build community awareness of the program and solicit public input on future public art projects. Even offer to accept donations for the program

Lewes in Bloom and Art in Bloom have already begun discussing these recommendations and will implement them in the coming months.

Lewes in Bloom will present the winning America in Bloom trophy to Lewes Mayor and Council at the Thursday, Dec. 1 workshop meeting in City Hall.

Art in Bloom is a committee of Lewes in Bloom. Its mission is to enhance the beautification and cultural environment of historic Lewes and the community at large by means of public art. Lewes in Bloom and Art in Bloom work together to enhance the natural beauty of Lewes – a community that values art and culture.