In 2014, downtown Newton was listed on the National Register of Historic Places as an example of a predominantly “mid-20th century” architectural aesthetic. To celebrate, the Newton Main Street Design Committee invited local artists to create paintings depicting aspects of life in Newton and Jasper County that they enjoyed. The artwork featured colors that were popular during the mid-20th century. Eight drawings from Newton area artists were reproduced and displayed on the former County Maintenance Garage (now “Viet-Thai Taste”).
Newton Main Street has now completed the task of relocating the eight drawings to two locations downtown. Six pieces of the artwork now enhance the pocket park on N. 3rd Ave. W., immediately north of the Aleya Salon Suites & Day Spa; the other two adorn the northwest wall of Advantage Credit Union.
You are invited to attend one or both of the brief dedication ceremonies to be held at each location on Wednesday, June 9. We will be introducing the artists whose works are on display and the individuals and organizations whose donations made the exhibits possible.
The schedule for the day and the artists/organizations being recognized:
- Wednesday, June 9 from 8:45 – 9:00 a.m.
- North pocket park (111 N. 3rd Ave. W.)
- Artists: Paula Zickmund, Karen King, Kyra Hauber, Joanne Thomasson, Mia Van Zante, and Margaret Caldwell
- Donors: Jasper County Arts Connection, Sign Pro, and Newton Main Street
- Wednesday, June 9 from 12:15 – 12:30 p.m.
- Advantage Credit Union (121 W. 3rd St. N.)
- Artists: Margaret Caldwell and Pam Krukow
- Donors: Advantage Credit Union, Sign Pro, and Newton Main Street
The ceremonies will be brief. We hope to see you at one or both of the dedications on the 9th. In case of rain, the events will be moved to Thursday, June 10th. Times will remain the same.
