By Ria Rebman, Marketing & Workforce Coordinator, Trusted Community Development
OSHKOSH, Neb. — The Oshkosh Creative District 77 has received the full $100,000 Nebraska Arts Council Creative District Development Grant, a major investment that will help advance the district’s vision and build on the momentum already underway in Oshkosh.
The grant supports continued development of Oshkosh Creative District 77 and reflects the strength of a community that has embraced art, community pride and collaboration as part of its future. Recently certified as a Nebraska Creative District, Oshkosh has built a growing identity around creativity, public art and a strong sense of place.
Oshkosh has built a Creative District that stands out not only for its visual character, but for the energy and local vision behind it. The district features murals, metal sculptures, mosaics and barn quilts, with even more public art found throughout Oshkosh and Garden County. Current and planned Creative District efforts include branding, signage, marketing, themed events and downtown enhancements.
Since September 2023, Oshkosh Creative District 77 Committee members leading this effort have included Jo Lynn Blackwell, James Bondegard, Elaine Lake, Kim Martin, Lauren Olson, Tessa Paulsen, Mike Piva, Sue Piva, Myra Ring, Nancy Schaffer, Marlis Shearer, Brittany Waltman and Karen Westerbuhr.
“This is exciting news for Oshkosh and for everyone who has helped shape this vision,” said James Bondegard, City Administrator for the City of Oshkosh. “Oshkosh is becoming a true creative destination in Nebraska, and this funding helps us continue building on the energy, creativity and community spirit that already make this place stand out.”
The grant application was supported by Trusted Community Development, with grant writing led by Brandy Stone, whose work helped bring the district’s vision, strategy and potential impact into focus.
“This award reflects the strength of Oshkosh’s vision and the collaboration behind bringing it to life,” said Brandy Stone, Grant Writer for Trusted Community Development. “It was an honor to help tell the story of a community that has already invested so much in creativity, place and people.”
Community leaders say the funding will help Oshkosh Creative District 77 continue strengthening its identity as a vibrant, welcoming place where art, community pride and economic vitality intersect.