For Rapids City Times

WISCONSIN RAPIDS – This fall, take in a different kind of “Friday Night Lights” in downtown Wisconsin Rapids that celebrates the work of local artists.

Twelve local artists painted their original designs on the windows in the Tribune Building’s circular portion at 220 1st Ave. South, Wisconsin Rapids, for the project, named Friday Night Lights at the Tribune Building. Artists created unique paintings around the theme of “Community Assets.” Windows feature everything from monarchs, fireworks, and fall beauty, to the local music scene. Each Friday from now through the end of October, the building’s lights are turned on from dusk to dawn to let the artwork shine forth through the night.

Artist Charissa Lager is a former Daily Tribune employee who took part in the project. “The opportunity to express things that I felt represent our community by painting a window in the building, where I began my career and grew a stronger community bond, was an honor. If we learn to appreciate the things Wisconsin Rapids has and step outside our mindsets, we can be open to the beauty of our community and the growth that is around the corner.”

When complete the Tribune Building’s second floor circular Creative Workshop will include a “makerspace” that will support the arts, skilled trades, and technology by providing a cooperative workspace where artists and entrepreneurs can share technology, equipment, and knowledge.

“That’s exactly what we saw on the Friday Night Lights project,” said project coordinator Carol Davis. “It brought people together to showcase local talent. This is only the beginning of what’s possible in our community and region.”

Friday Night Lights is free and open to the public. Drive or walk by the building to view these exceptional works.

For more information, visit  www.tribunebuilding.org, call 715-423-3863, or email [email protected].