Brooks Resources Corporation has announced a $500,000 matching gift program to purchase and install art on public property within the city limits of Bend by December 31, 2010. Brooks Resources will match both public and private donations, giving Bend a potential of $1,000,000 for new public art.

Art in Public Places will continue to be responsible for art and artist selection. The Art, Beautification and Culture Commission, a City of Bend designated committee, is coordinating the site selections. The Celebrate Bend Foundation, a charitable 501(c)3 arm of the City of Bend, has kicked off Art Match by donating $10,000, the program’s first donation.

Those interested in contributing to the Art Match fund may do so by contacting Cate O’Hagan, Executive Director of Arts Central (Non-Profit Regional Arts Council) at 541-749-2291.