The Jacob Lawrence Mural Dedication
The AC Arts Foundation (www.AtlanticCityArtsFoundation.org) dedicated one of their newest murals Oct. 27, located in the New York Avenue, parking lot of Atlantic Cape Community College.
The dedication brought out just under a hundred people including politicians like State Assemblyman Don Guardian and Atlantic City Councilman Kaleem Shabazz (both of whom were recently re-elected to their respective seats of office.)
Also among those gathered to see the mural dedicated to Atlantic City painter, Jacob Lawrence were a host of people from the South Jersey Arts scene, including representatives from The Noyes Arts Garage of Stockton University, sculptor Lennox Warner and Ralph Hunter of The African American Heritage Museum of Southern New Jersey.
The new mural is a 3 paneled (or square) painting that combines the work of 3 different local artists Kenneth Lazan Faulk, Jr., John Morris, and Chanelle René. The new mural was also brought to completion with the participation of young artists from the Leaders in Training program.
Valeria Marcus, Ralph Hunter and Don Guardian
Artist/activist Valeria Marcus was a driving force for getting the mural done. Ms. Marcus has long been an advocate of making sure painter Jacob Lawrence is remembered and celebrated here in Atlantic City. Ms. Marcus worked with The Atlantic City Arts Foundation and the artists on every phase of the project. Mr. Marcus has also led successful campaigns to have the original Jacob Lawrence art show at The Atlantic City Public Library.
According to The National Gallery of Art (www.NGA.Gov) Jacob Lawrence was born in Atlantic City in 1917 and died in Seattle, Washington in 2000. Lawrence is known for multipanel series that tell stories of African and African American history.
Everyone can enjoy this beautiful mural now on display at 1535 Bacharach Blvd, Atlantic City.
The new art experience doesn’t stop at ACCC or even at the boardwalk. The latest installation of ARTeriors opened on Friday, November 10th. The “old” James Salt Water Taffy building is the latest to be remade artistically by SJ artists.
The site is located at 1519 Boardwalk, Atlantic City, NJ. Artists have transformed The James, the former home of the James Candy Company, into an immersive pop-up art experience. This historic site, where Salt Water Taffy found its sweet beginnings, holds endless stories of innovation, inspiration, and ingenuity.
A total of 15 artists have created one of a kind pieces that are on display at The James.
See for yourself. Visiting hours are Saturday and Sunday 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.
For more information on Jacob Lawrence, other city murals and ARTeriors you can visit www.AtlanticCityArtsFoundation.org.
