In the Spring of 2024, I was able to launch the Let It Shine-Pittsfield High School Public Art Project. The project included twice weekly visits to the school to meet with students. (All students were invited to join.) We discussed how public art gets made, interesting public art from around the world, and how we can improve our own community with public art.
With inspiration from Williams College professor, Pallavi Sen, we designed a public art installation for Downtown Pittsfield. We selected the pedestrian walkway near the movie theater because it is a place commonly visited by the students, and it was in need of some TLC. The architecture included 4 large former windows that had been boarded up. This became the locations for our tile mural.
With the students, we designed a collection of shapes, and hand glazed 300 ceramic tiles. We are so happy with the result. The colors and textures of the tiles look so good with the architecture. We are hoping to continue this work with young people in Pittsfield, empowering community members to bring lasting beauty to our small city.
