Public Arts Commission chooses finalists for photo gallery
The winning photos will be displayed in the City of Oxford Municipal Building beginning in March through the remainder of 2026.
The Public Arts Commission of Oxford (PACO) chose the finalists whose photographs will be displayed in the City of Oxford Municipal Building in March.
PACO has a call for art to be displayed in the municipal building each year, although the call was narrowed to photographic submissions this year, and photographers were given the theme, “light and shadow.”
There were 71 submissions in total that were narrowed down to more than 20 photographs. The photos will be displayed around the building for a reception in March and stay up throughout the year.
Additionally, PACO members also discussed how the city can participate in the statewide celebration of author Toni Morrison for the United States’ 250th anniversary. Assistant City Manager Jessica Greene said the celebration may take place in the fall in partnership with the Oxford Community Arts Center and the Oxford Lane Library.
Members explored the concept of having a community read with a mixed art show.
PACO also briefly discussed the possibility of installing murals or other artwork at the new Amtrak platform at the Butler County Regional Transit Authority station on Chestnut Street. Greene said PACO will continue to discuss the possibility of an installation that would “enhance” the area.
A mural design PACO chose out of 64 submissions last year was meant to be completed by the end of 2025 and installed on the Oxford Municipal Parking Garage at 6 Walnut St. on the corner facing both Main and High streets.
Greene told the Oxford Free Press the installation was delayed, as it needed an approved engineering design by an Ohio building professional to complete the project. Now, she says the city is anticipating a spring installation.
