Creative Communities

Indiana County and the Creative Communities Initiative

As Executive Director and Program Manager (2021–2024), Harley was the driving force behind Indiana County’s selection for the prestigious Pennsylvania Council for the Arts’ Creative Communities grant. This multi-year award catalyzed a transformative period for the region, centered on the strategic "Room to Grow" arts initiative.

Under Harley Bouleau’s leadership, the initiative focused on economic development through the arts, community beautification, and professional artist education. With an incredible team of government workers, nonprofit agencies, and volunteers, this initiative orchestrated the installation of over 50 murals across Indiana County, turning public spaces into vibrant cultural landmarks. Harley Bouleau additionally facilitated a complex partnership between the Indiana County Office of Planning and Development, the County’s Board of Commissioners, Spruce Arts, and the Indiana Arts Council, alongside seven additional partner organizations. This additionally lead to management of different programs within the "Room to Grow" 2021-2025 strategic plan, which included providing professional development and education to local artists through a diverse array of workshops for both adults and students, fostering a sustainable ecosystem for public art and community-managed projects and funding opportunities for artists.

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Drop by drop: Traveling artists brighten Indiana with murals by Patrick Cloonan for the Indiana Gazette