Local government + local artists — two things that seemingly may not go hand-in-hand. But because the City of Lexington is a horse of a different color, it’s partnering with CivicLex to shake things up and blend the rules.

For the first time ever, the Civic Artist in Residence program is unfolding in Fayette County + we want to give you an overview of the program, as well as introduce you to the artists who are embedding themselves into the Lexington-Fayette Urban County Government (LFUCG).

Overview

The year-long program will have three local Lexington artists collaborate with three different government departments — Environmental Quality + Public Works, Finance, and Social Services.

These three artists are going to use their unique skill sets to attempt to improve communication between local government + Lexington residents. They also want to find creative ways to make government information more accessible, user friendly + less intimidating.

Meet the artists

Debra Faulk | Comedian + Actress | Department of Social Services

Tony Gilmore | Filmmaker | Department of Environmental Quality + Public Works

Hannah Allen | Quilter + Textile Artist | Department of Finance

Artists naturally use problem-solving in their work. They take risks, change directions + aren’t afraid to try new methods. LFUCG is hoping to learn from these artists + employ some of their methods when tackling civic issues.