The Leesburg Arts Commission discussed several items April 1 as it prepared summer programming: a sponsorship for the Flower and Garden Show, expanding access to a self-guided public-art walking tour, banner artwork for the Visitor Center, and an artist reception planned for early June.

Commission member Tara proposed a $250 sponsorship to support a flower-wall installation and hire a short-term photographer for the Flower and Garden Show. The commission approved the $250 sponsorship (motion and approval recorded in meeting minutes) and asked staff to confirm remaining budget lines.

Commissioners also discussed a self-guided art-walk application that provides audio and a GIS map of public art. Staff noted the tour exists on the town website and in an app, but several members said the link is not visible on the mobile version of the town website. Commissioners asked staff to move or add an app/download link to the website’s mobile homepage so visitors can find the tour more easily.

On banners, staff presented final artwork for printing to be displayed at the Visitor Center in June and July. Commissioners approved the design for printing and agreed to place the banners at the Visitor Center for June and July, with a proposed artist reception on June 6 from 6 to 8 p.m.

The commission also discussed outreach for several artist calls and the Crossroads Festival submissions; members noted low response for some youth and school-targeted calls and asked staff to reissue notices to local schools and PTAs. Commissioners discussed adjusting the timeline for the school plow-painting program to issue calls earlier in the school year and to schedule painting during spring rather than late fall.

Staff reported the new free-library installation is assembled and will be monitored for a trial period; a ribbon-cutting dedication will be scheduled once plaques arrive.