This community seemed like an interesting one to brainstorm with, I googled for +sculptor best cities and came across an old 404 post. But the conversations going on here seem promising. I'm interested in finding out abandoned lots and that kind of thing to create art projects with. As well as find a place to move, maybe both.
texjernigan.com
Give Paducah, KY a try. Small town, but into arts in a big way.
My fair city of Albuquerque is a very friendly art destination and growing in that regard. The art scene is very friendly and open to newcomers - more supportive than competitive and a good amount of opportunity to forward your career. I work at an art center and you can PM me if you want a link or want more specifics. Housing here is not too cheap, but there are opportunities to be had if you are willing to live a little funky. The vacant lot potential is fairly high here, too. We have a good number of vacant lots in and around the downtown area. These are sure to fill in with housing over time, but in the current climate, that is likely to take some time. In the meantime, people are interested in improving these spaces. We (me, at my work) started and manage a community garden on a vacant lot, for example. And people are generally very interested in public art. Santa Fe (which is pricey to live in, but a good venue to show work) is now accessible by train. Its about an hour north of Albuquerque.
Harwood Art Center: http://www.harwoodartcenter.org
OffCenter Arts Project: http://www.offcenterarts.org/
You might also look at one of my favorite cities - Pittsburgh. They even have a program through the Penn Avenue on the Arts initiative to get artists into older buildings in need of improvement with low cost loans and renovation funds. They are targeting artists in particular to help re-invent and revitalize this and other areas in the city. And they've got vacant lots out the wazoo. Housing is pretty affordable there and the employment situation is actually pretty good as they are now built mostly on healthcare and education - both fairly stable in this economy. Plus they have some stellar arts venues like the Andy Warhol Museum and the Mattress Factory (to name just a few).
Good luck!
Penn Avenue Arts Initiative: http://www.pennavenuearts.org/
Warhol Museum: http://www.warhol.org/
Mattress Factory: http://www.mattress.org/
The purpose of life is a life of purpose
Greetings from Central Indiana. Indianapolis has a small art community, both the Broad Ripple and Mass. Ave neighborhoods have a bit of culture.
I will second Wahday's recommendation about Pittsburgh. An underrated city, but one of my favorites. Great arts scene and great city overall!
What he said.Originally posted by mike gurnee
Oddball
Why don't you knock it off with them negative waves?
Why don't you dig how beautiful it is out here?
Why don't you say something righteous and hopeful for a change?
From Kelly's Heroes (1970)
Are you sure you're not hurt ?
No. Just some parts wake up faster than others.
Broke parts take a little longer, though.
From Electric Horseman (1979)
Welcome and good luck with the relocation.
Welcome aboard!
