~ By Rebecca Bernard, DCS PR Coordinator

Dayton Creative Syndicate is proud to participate in Activated Spaces, a program started by the Downtown Dayton Partnership, Generation Dayton, and updayton as a way to bring life to downtown Dayton’s empty spaces. This installation, commandeered by Public Service Coordinator Artie Toth, is part of the first phase of Activated Spaces, where empty downtown storefronts are beautified by artwork made right here in Dayton. Each installation is meant to feature a unique part of the city and is refreshed bi-annually in conjunction with Urban Nights.

Using graphic design, set and interior design, landscape painting and screen-printing, DCS brings the Historic South Park neighborhood to life in the Biltmore Towers’ empty storefronts on the corner of Main and First streets. This mixed media message is an appropriate project to reflect South Park’s national "Neighborhood of the Year" recognition for the physical rejuvenation of the area. Like the residents who came together to restore their district, DCS’ creative members joined forces to showcase South Park’s community improvements, narratives and entertainment.

The Dayton Creative Syndicate chose the South Park neighborhood because the spirit of the neighborhood—creativity, culture, entertainment, community and betterment—reflects what DCS looks for in our own members. It is hoped the displays will encourage viewers, whether new to the area or long-time residents, to go take a look at South Park and see it with new eyes. Involvement with Activated Spaces is key to DCS, as we care for the welfare of our downtown area, and as our organization’s profile in the community grows, so does visibility for new member involvement and exciting new opportunities.

As time goes on, Activated Spaces will progress to its projected second stage, where temporary retail events will "pop up" in vacant spaces. The final phase of the project is soliciting businesses looking to open in downtown Dayton, giving new life to our city center.

DCS would like to thank Digital Fringe for their contribution of vinyl printing, without which the project would not have been possible. We would also like to thank Agust Roestamadji for the paintings features in the display. If you would like to help DCS with future Activated Spaces displays, please contact Artie Toth at artie.toth@creativesyndicate.org

Please vote for our Activated Spaces installation for the People's Choice Award! Voting ends this Friday, September 30.