BLOOMFIELD, NJ -- The Bloomfield Department of Parks, Recreation and Cultural Affairs is holding an open-air gallery that will include art from both professional and amateur local artists. Over 50 local artists submitted various types of art that was captured in high resolution photos and will be displayed on light poles along Broad Street and within Bloomfield Center. 
“Our community is fortunate to have so many phenomenal artists and now residents and visitors will have the opportunity to view that artwork as they drive or walk by,” said Mayor Venezia. “This is a great way to support local artists in a socially distanced and safe way.”
Typically, the Bloomfield Art League holds exhibitions throughout the year however, due to COVID-19 the annual Town Paints and Oakside events were cancelled and replaced by this contest.
Artists submitted various mediums including oil, pastels, acrylic, watercolor, sculpture, photography, printmaking graphic design and more. The winning art can be seen on the corner of Broad Street and Bloomfield Avenue.
“I’m so proud of our staff for always designing new and innovative programming that still complies with Covid safety protocols,” said Bloomfield Director of Parks, Recreation and Cultural Affairs, Michael Sceurman. “In particular, Gabriela Guida Recreation Leader should be commended for her vision and execution of this initiative. I hope everyone makes it a point to visit our Open Air Gallery.”
Additional assistance and support on this initiative was provided by the Bloomfield Center Alliance who secured the cash prizes and downtown business gift cards which were awarded to the top three submissions - Leroy White (first place), Brandon Franks (second place), and Vivian Schiff (third place). 
“We are grateful that the Department of Parks, Recreation, and Cultural Affairs reached out to us with the fantastic idea which so creatively promotes the arts here in Bloomfield,” said Ollyn Lettman, Director of the Bloomfield Center Alliance. “This outdoor gallery now on display in downtown Bloomfield is another representation of how our downtown is changing and growing in so many ways.”
To view the art virtually go to https://my.visme.co/view/jwpekgqq-broad-steps-open-air-art-gallery for english or https://my.visme.co/view/vdkymjg3-broad-steps-galeria-de-arte-al-aire-libre for spanish.