Universal is also assisting with marketing the program. Orlando's pending lizard invasion was inspired by Chicago's Cows on Parade last year. Modeled after a public art project introduced in Zurich, Switzerland, in 1998, the project was a huge success and started a new view of public art in this country. There are currently pigs in Cincinnati, horses in Lexington, buffalo in Buffalo, mermaids in Virginia Beach, potato heads in Rhode Island and LizArt in Orlando. Not only is this a fun way to raise awareness and fund the arts in our community, but it also gives our visitors one more reason to visit the area, thus enhancing the economy.
Artists submit their drawings and proposals are matched to a sponsor.
The lizards are strategically placed in areas offering high visibility for tourists and residents. All net proceeds will go to the Downtown Arts District. This is a fun and creative way for sponsors to increase their corporate visibility while supporting the arts. Robinson, who also serves as the official lizard handler for the City of Orlando, says that each lizard has a plaque naming the lizard, sponsor and the artist. At the end of the promotion, the lizards will be auctioned off with proceeds going to the Downtown Arts District.