We recently announced two ribbon cuttings for murals hosted by our Neighborhood Revitalization programs, Community Action Development Bethlehem and Slate Belt Rising. These programs work to advance a neighborhood-based vision of community and economic development.
Murals, especially those designed by local artists, have a significant positive impact on neighborhoods and community engagement. They enhance the aesthetics of the area, transforming unattractive walls into vibrant pieces of art. This not only beautifies the neighborhood but also fosters a sense of community identity and pride. Our murals, reflecting the unique character of our city, serve as landmarks and contribute to building a stronger community.
Murals can also create economic benefits by promoting tourism and increasing property values. They bring the community together through collaboration and engagement, inspiring events, discussions, and activities centered around the art. Additionally, murals offer educational opportunities, teaching residents, especially children, about art, techniques, and cultural heritage.
Overall, community murals inspire and instill a sense of belonging, making residents feel more connected to their neighborhood. By transforming spaces, fostering community pride, and encouraging economic development, murals play a vital role in revitalizing neighborhoods and enhancing community engagement.
On May 31 2024, we had a fantastic time at the ribbon-cutting ceremony for Community Action Development Bethlehem's vibrant new mural on the Greenway at Hobart Street! This inspiring art project, led by local artists Billy Nieves and Jermel Fountain, was created in collaboration with students from Donegan Elementary School. Donegan's art teacher, Tiffany Anderson, facilitated the project, engaging her fifth-grade students in the design process, and their sketches and ideas were incorporated into the final design.
The mural's creation was made possible through the generous support of the City of Bethlehem and the Lehigh Valley Chamber Foundation. It beautifully highlights the power of community and the importance of involving youth in the beautification of their surroundings.
An additional thank you to Anna Smith, Director of CADB; Mayor J. William Reynolds; Barbara Fraust of the Bethlehem Fine Arts Commission; Dr. Jack Silva of the Bethlehem Area School District; Chamber Foundation representative Rami Nemeh; Representative Steve Samuelson; and Erin Martin-Medina of Donegan Elementary!
On June 7, the Slate Belt community in Pen Argyl, PA, celebrated the ribbon cutting of a vibrant new mural that beautifully captures the spirit of the area through depictions of local parades, the century-old carousel, and various community events. This mural was made possible thanks to the dedicated efforts of Brian Fenstermaker, Director of Slate Belt Rising, and Slate Belt Chamber, with Executive Director Beth Duyssen playing a role in organizing the event. State Representative Ann Flood of the 138th District honored the occasion by presenting a plaque to our talented mural artist, Terri Palmer.
Terri, who has painted several other murals in the region, said: "I wanted to capture the essence of Pen Argyl and what makes it special. I hope the mural will bring joy and pride to the community and inspire people to learn more about the rich history and culture of the Slate Belt."
Mike Ortoski, owner of Blue Valley Times and a member of the Slate Belt Rising Steering Committee, joined the celebration, in addition to Tammy Kemp and Joann Anderson from the Pen Argyl Borough Council. Mike DePaulo and Tiffany McDaniel from First Northern Bank & Trust, were supporters of the project, with Mike also serving on the SBR Steering Committee. The mural was funded through a combination of the NPP Fund and a Northampton County Grow NorCO grant, highlighting the collaborative community effort behind this unique, inspiring, and impactful project.
Photography: Staysee Productions
