“We rise by lifting others.”
Robert G. Ingersoll
politician, humanitarian, orator
Thanks to the support of hundreds of volunteers and donors in the "quiet corner" of Connecticut, RiseUP for Arts launched, the Public Art Northeast chapter to produce and manage public art projects in Tolland and Windham Counties.
THE FIRST MURAL: MLK39: Racial Equity Mural
The community came together to create a large-scale mural honoring our diverse history at the Hale Family YMCA. The mural "Teach Peace" was painted by RiseUP muralist Emida Roller and depicts Dr. Martin Luther King and local civil rights leaders Prudence Crandall and Sarah Harris.
The success of the first mural spurred more energy to continue bringing community inclusive public art to the region with a pipeline of projects that soon followed.
TWO MORE MURALS: Partnership with Willimantic Public Art
Over the summer Willimantic Public Art hired RiseUP for Arts to execute two new murals in their Downtown District. RiseUP worked with team member Jaii Marc Renee to paint two beautiful murals that highlight the rich culture and activity of Downtown Willimantic.
PUTNAM PUBLIC SCHOOL ART RESIDENCY KICKOFF: Bringing Inspiration to Helping Hands Program
In December, we completed our first project in collaboration with Putnam Public School and the Helping Hands transitional program for students with disabilities. Students were led by RiseUP muralist, Emida Roller, in the creation of a colorful and eye-catching mural. Check out the timelapse!
This mural is the first project in our Art Residency program with Putnam Public Schools where we will expose students to mentorship, workforce readiness skills, and the creation of beautiful murals and public art.
PROJECTS TO SUPPORT IN 2023 Public Art Northeast team is building a pipeline of exciting art installations to the "quiet corner" of Connecticut. Projects that you can support:
Art Residency program with Putnam Public Schools
Woodstock Academy MLK39: Racial Equity Mural
Quinebaug Valley Community College Mural
"Instagrammable" Downtown Putnam Mural
Every dollar donated to Public Art Northeast through RiseUP will directly contribute to youth mentoring and involvement in creating public art. Every gift counts, no matter the size. Please donate today.
SPECIAL THANKS TO OUR 2022 DONORS/PARTNERS: Centreville Bank, Jewett City Savings, bankHometown, Sawmill Pottery, Weiss, Hale, and Zahansky, Willimantic Public Art, Newell Hale Foundation, Putnam Arts Council, Town of Putnam, Hale YMCA Youth and Family Center, Northeast CT Arts Guild and over 50 donations from individuals and organizations from the local community.
