‘You are in control.’ Walking trail, app-based exhibit features Fort Worth artists

Art galleries can be great to visit, but what if the beautiful works were brought to you?

In that vein, Amphibian Stage has unveiled a new multi-sensory project billed as unlike anything seen before in Fort Worth. Neighborhood Leap is an app-based augmented reality art walk exploring the creative energy of South Main Village.

The experience is possible through a partnership with Blue Zones Project Fort Worth and is running through the summer, with hopes of running in perpetuity. The exhibit merges newly commissioned works of music, visual art, movement, and storytelling from local artists with existing public art pieces.

“The last two years have taught us the power of working to support our community. The South Main Village residents and business owners came together and helped one another through some very rough times,” Amphibian Stage founder and artistic director Kathleen Culebro said. “We wanted to do something to give back to our city by highlighting all the wonderful things our neighborhood offers.

“In just a 30-minute walk, you will encounter over 20 works of art, lovely parks, and countless independently-owned shops and eateries, each one a treasure. We’re in love with this area, and we’re excited to give people a chance to fall in love too. Whether it’s your first visit or you think you know it well — there will be something new to discover.”

To make it work, folks simply must download the Neighborhood Leap app on their device, enter their zip code and point the camera at the activations. Each activation has its own icon that people can press and line up with visual cues.

“You are in control. The best place to start is Amphibian Stage’s parking lot (120 S. Main St. in Fort Worth),” Culebro said.

The exhibit is free and available any time, day or night.

The cutting-edge experience features new works from Martha Peters, Allison Rogers, Daniel Banks, Lou Charle$, Armond Vance, Grady Spencer, and students from the historic Fort Worth school, I.M. Terrell Academy for STEM & VPA — among others. Colliding with new works, existing public art featured in the walk includes work by Benito Huerta, Jay Wilkinson, Kristin Sobel, Sarah Ayala, and more.

The app was brought to life in collaboration with The Cultural Assembly, and additional partnerships with Near Southside Arts and Texas Commission on the Arts.

Culebro believes the exhibit will also attract more than just regular art lovers.

“We do believe that the fact that it’s free, accessible day or night, and outdoors will make it appealing to many who might not feel comfortable visiting a museum or gallery,” she said.

And, she said it is something the entire family can enjoy.

Beyond highlighting artists, Neighborhood Leap was developed to get people outside, walking and interacting with one another. After the past two years of anxiety, social isolation, and fear, Neighborhood Leap invites the public to experience physical, mental, and emotional inspiration through activity, art, and community, something that excited

“Better well-being isn’t just about eating better and moving more — although those activities can certainly lead to a longer, better life,” said Matt Dufrene, vice president of Blue Zones Project Fort Worth. “Connecting with others, engaging with family and friends, is equally important. Neighborhood Leap is an opportunity for residents to not only add some natural movement to their day, but to do it while connecting and engaging with others in a unique way.”