The Vollis Simpson Whirlgig Park is well on its way to opening next year, and is already attracting attention. If you haven't been following their progress, this video neatly encapsulates what the folks in Wilson, North Carolina have been up to. Kimberly Van Dyk, Downtown Manager for the City of Wilson, explains how city leaders wooed artist Vollis Simpson to bring his whimsical whirligigs downtown to create a new city center that will draw people from miles around - and beyond.

The Whirligig Project is a great example of the impact that art can have on a rural, small town community. "In rural settings, where people live far apart from one another, the arts can offer an opportunity to come together and share a common experience,” said NEA Chairman Rocco Landesman upon the release of the latest ArtPlace grants. “It is wonderful that ArtPlace and its funders have recognized this work and invested in it so generously."

ArtPlace is seeking applications from rural and urban projects in all 50 states for our third round of grant funding. The application deadline is November 1, 2012.