Columbus artist's work chosen for statewide Creative District poster series

Local artist's design selected

Local artist Yara Ramos Hernandez’s design was recently chosen to represent Columbus in a statewide poster series launched by the Nebraska Arts Council and Flatwater Free Press.

The Nebraska Arts Council challenged six communities with Certified Creative Districts (Columbus, Ashland, Omaha, McCook, Nebraska City and Lincoln) to have three local artists vie for the opportunity to submit a design for the series. To do so, the nominee had to submit a brief bio, samples of their work and a letter of interest for the project. Columbus submitted work for consideration from Nelson Labrada, Amy Tomasevicz and Ramos Hernandez before a panel of Nebraska Arts Council and Nebraska Journalism Trust representatives selected Ramos Hernandez to represent the local community.

Artist tasked with representing Creative District

“Like everything else, it’s a privilege,” Ramos Hernandez said. “I know being chosen is an honor.”

Ramos Hernandez was given some parameters for the project, noting she was tasked with making sure it represented the Trackside District- Downtown Columbus.

Her design boasts vibrant shades of orange, blue, green, red and purple, among others, while incorporating local landmarks in the area. Among them are the water tower that has ‘Columbus’ written on it, the popular and historic Glur’s Tavern (the oldest continuously operated tavern west of the Missouri River); a mural incorporating musical elements she created and is featured on the back of band shell in Frankfort Square; the Columbus Community Building, an American flag and more.

Design inspired by what artist appreciates about Columbus

For Ramos Hernandez, the design was inspired but what she truly appreciates most about Columbus.

“We don’t have skyscrapers here, but I think we have amazing people here and that’s what makes Columbus unique. That’s not to say other communities don’t have amazing people, but that’s what makes Columbus special to me,” she said. “I just tried to represent my community by showcasing a little bit of everything while being creative.”