by Noam Bramson | Mar 23, 2012
Since its founding in 2009, the Ward Acres Community Garden has transformed a previously underutilized portion of the park into a lively and beautiful showcase for local agriculture. The Community Garden’s success is a real tribute to the sweat equity and dedication of local volunteer gardeners.
Last year, garden organizers announced a plan to add an ambitious public art installation to the grounds, taking advantage of New Rochelle’s growing arts community. Called “The Meeting Place,” the project consists of a series of benches, fountains, and stools, all designed to complement a natural setting. It is scheduled to be unveiled this fall and is sponsored by the New Rochelle Council on the Arts and the Boys & Girls Club of New Rochelle.
To support this wonderful community project, please consider attending a breakfast fundraiser and art exhibition on March 31 at AJ’s Burgers on North Avenue. Tickets are $20 per person. More information is available here and at at the Ward Acres Community Garden website.
by Noam Bramson | Jul 25, 2011
Remember that old series of Reese’s Peanut Butter Cup TV ads in which someone with a chocolate bar collided with someone else carrying peanut butter, and — voila — a new taste sensation was created. OK, the analogy is a bit stretched and corny, but I can’t help but think of those ads, as I look forward to the new public art installation at Ward Acres.
The Ward Acres Community Garden has been among the most successful recent volunteer initiatives in New Rochelle, bringing together scores of gardeners who have activated a previously under-utilized portion of the park, formed great friendships, helped feed the needy, and introduced many residents to the pleasures of local agriculture.
At the same time, New Rochelle’s cultural life has benefited from the talents and organizational efforts of members of our arts community. And the City, meanwhile, has worked to promote public art in connection with major development.
Chocolate, meet peanut butter.
Called, “The Meeting Place,” the plan at Ward Acres envisions a set of several installations, all with common materials and elements. These include a Mosaic Fountain, Rainbow Bench, Serpentine Bench, Drinking Fountain, Rain Catcher Totem Pole, and Tree Stump Stools. They will serve a practical purpose and will also enliven an already beautiful space with their whimsical design. The project is made possible entirely through private funding and donations.
All involved deserve thanks.
