Traverse City Light & Power partners with students from Interlochen Arts Academy for 'Art on Infrastructure' during Public Power Week

Students from Conor Fagan's Public Art class designed and implemented artwork on infrastructure in Traverse City.

Interlochen Arts Academy visual arts students from Conor Fagan's Public Art class

Interlochen Arts Academy visual arts students from Conor Fagan's Public Art class. Photo by Conor Fagan.

Traverse City Light & Power (TCLP) is excited to announce its recent collaboration with students from the renowned Interlochen Arts Academy on an inspiring "Art on Infrastructure" project. The project, completed last week during Public Power Week (Oct. 6-12, 2024), celebrates community, creativity, and the role of public utilities in enriching everyday life.

Public Power Week highlights the benefits of public power systems like TCLP, which are community-owned and operated, providing reliable and sustainable energy while giving back to the local area. In the spirit of this tradition, TCLP teamed up with Interlochen students to bring artistic expressions to public utility infrastructure, blending technology and the arts in a way that engages the entire community.

The "Art on Infrastructure" initiative is one of many efforts TCLP has undertaken to deepen its engagement with the community. By partnering with local institutions and empowering the next generation of artists, TCLP underscores its commitment to fostering innovation and community spirit in Traverse City.

“We are proud to collaborate with the talented students from Interlochen on this unique project,” said Brandie Ekren, Executive Director of Traverse City Light & Power. “By combining art with infrastructure, we’re not only enhancing the visual landscape of Traverse City but also highlighting the power of community and creativity. Public Power Week is the perfect time to celebrate these connections, and we look forward to continuing similar initiatives that bring energy and artistry together.”

Students worked on designing and implementing artwork on the infrastructure located near 130 Hall Street, Traverse City. This project not only beautifies the city but also offers a unique opportunity to showcase the immense talent of young local artists.

"The Public Art class had a great time talking with the public while we worked, and truly appreciated the opportunity to shed light on our talented students here at Interlochen," said Instructor of Visual Arts Conor Fagan. “We are always open to collaborations between Interlochen Arts Academy and local businesses, and we look forward to more opportunities in the future!"