New Hope-Solebury School District has partnered with nonprofit organization New Hope Arts to enrich its campus with three striking contemporary works of art.
The installations represent various artistic styles and materials and showcase the work of a diverse set of local artists.
Christine Ramirez, executive director of New Hope Arts, emphasized the significance of the collaboration: “As an arts organization located near the school, we believe it’s vital to expose students to a variety of art forms. Bringing these artworks directly to their campus is an ideal way to achieve this goal. We are grateful to Pamm Kerr, our Public Arts Program chairperson, and committee member, Karina Raude, for spearheading this meaningful collaboration.”
Ramirez sees this initiative as a catalyst for sparking students’ interest in art and exploring potential career paths within the field.
The installations are part of New Hope Arts’ Public Arts Program, dedicated to promoting local artists and providing the community with opportunities to engage with art in public spaces. Funding for the artwork lease was provided by the New Hope-Solebury Education Fund, a nonprofit affiliate of the district.
The selected artworks include “Dancer,” crafted from concrete and marble terrazzo by Ghanaian artist Mike Gyampo. The piece draws on West African cultural traditions, reflecting Gyampo’s distinctive artistic approach. Philadelphia-based artist Melanie Serkes contributed “Housing,” a sculpture crafted from cast concrete and powder-coated steel. The collection is rounded out by “Dodecahedron Star,” an impressive glass structure by renowned artist Ray King, renowned for its ability to capture and reflect natural light.
New Hope-Solebury students will have the opportunity to study and analyze these sculptures in their art classrooms. Additionally, the district plans to invite the artists as guest presenters, providing students with insights into their creative processes and professional experiences.
“I’m excited about our partnership with New Hope Arts,” said New Hope-Solebury elementary art teacher Mark Mannion. “This collaboration offers our students a unique opportunity to experience local art both on our campus and throughout New Hope. Each year, we take a walking field trip with students and staff, and many are amazed to discover the artworks in our own backyard. It fosters a wonderful sense of community.
Join our readers whose generous donations are making it possible for you to read our news coverage. Help keep local journalism alive and our community strong. Donate today.
