THIRD TIME'S THE CHARM. Well, every year of Color Block has been outstanding and lush with creativity, but this year's Color Block recently opened up its call for artists!

Be honest – it’s hard to miss those fantastic murals around downtown Eau Claire and Altoona! They've quickly become a major part of the culture in the area over the last few years and these colorful additions aren't going anywhere – the Color Block program is back for its third year!

"(Our main focus) is to create paid opportunities for emerging artists, and to bring attention to the visual arts,” said Julie Pangallo, the organizer of Color Block. There has always been a drive for bringing the arts to the Chippewa Valley, and Color Block has been integral in doing so."

Pangallo has many plans for the 2023 expansion, which will see lots of new artwork around the Valley. "We did a call for sites (this year)," she said. "We've got, like, 30 businesses that are interested in having a mural on the side of their building."

Businesses in the area have been critical in the expansion of Color Block this year, as Pangallo emphasized. "It's really the businesspeople that make this work," she explained. "Everything takes money and sponsorships, and people offering to help pay for it."

Artists both experienced and emerging are encouraged to apply for a chance to showcase their talents for the community to see splashed around the Valley. Applications close on March 15, but there's still plenty of slots left! "There's nothing to lose! Why not try it?" Pangallo said. "We'd love to see everyone's work."

Mural from a previous year of Color Block, by Evan Peterson.

It's tough to sum up the impact of the Color Block program in just a couple of words, Pangallo said, but it's clear the community appreciates art programs like it. "The program has changed the personality of Eau Claire," she said. "We've become known as a community that really embraces our art."

Color Block is bringing color to the Valley, and personally, we can't wait to see what they do this year. Pangallo said it best: "How cool (is it) to live in a community like Eau Claire?!"

To learn more about Color Block and apply before its deadline of March 15, 2023, check out its official website.