Southeast Montana News

On Monday, May 20th, from 1:00 – 2:00pm, a ribbon-cutting ceremony will take place at the triangular pocket park located just west of McKinley School in Billings. The event celebrates the unveiling of "Funky Frames," an artistic collaboration and the first creation by Terri Porta, Billings' inaugural Artist in Residence.

The sculpture was developed in conjunction with students from McKinley Elementary School under the guidance of art teacher Elizabeth Fisher. The installation features a cement pad adorned with quotes about the power of arts from local artists.

Porta shared her thoughts on the project, stating, “I am so excited to bring this new public art sculpture to our beautiful community. I love that the residents and neighbors will get to enjoy the added color and fun this sculpture represents. Our culture is changing, but this art, created through the innocence and playfulness of children stands to give us hope for a kinder future.”

"Funky Frames" is part of a series of public art installations along Billings’ first neighborhood bikeway. The aim of these installations is threefold: to celebrate Billings, revitalize neighborhoods, and reduce traffic speeds by activating key points along the bikeway.

Funding for these projects comes from both the National Endowment for the Arts and local donors. Key partners include the City of Billings, Billings Arts Association, Healthy By Design Coalition, Triia, and Artist in Residence Terri Porta.

For more information about this initiative or other related projects visit www.billingsmt.gov/3093/Mobilize-the-MAGIC-City-Project or www.terriporta.com.