Artists named as Creative Ambassadors

The city has named two local artists as Austin Creative Ambassadors for the third quarter of 2014.  Judy Jensen is a visual artist who specializes in reverse paintings on glass. She is currently working on a multiyear project in a 19th century Buddhist temple in Mae Hong Son, Thailand, to replace paintings which were damaged by the 2004 earthquake.  Also named was Usha Akella, who is the author of three books of poetry. Her poetry has been translated into several languages and has recently won awards at Struga Poetry Evenings in Macedonia and Siir Festival in Turkey. The Creative Ambassadors Program is managed by the Cultural Arts Division of the Economic Development Department. Program officials say it is intended to “open new avenues of dialogue and opportunity between Austin and markets worldwide.” The city accepts applications from Austin artists who are traveling overseas in promotion of their own work. Check the city website for more information.