#newarknj

Fred Wilson (b. 1954, Bronx, New York) challenges assumptions of history, culture, race, and conventions of display with his work. Known for his politically charged work that explore issues faced by Africans and African-Americans in past centuries, Fred Wilson makes sculptures that are, first and foremost, beautiful. His Murano glass mirrors (2009), made from onyx Murano glass (a color never before used for decorative objects), are glossy and ornate, while Regina Atra (2006), Wilson’s version of the Diamond Diadem, the celebrated crown worn by Her Majesty the Queen of England, is as delicate and opulent as the original. Each is a commentary on the African experience, a theme that is occasionally met with great resistance, as in the case of Wilson’s thwarted efforts to erect a sculpture of a freed slave in Indianapolis, which was to be titled E Pluribus Unum. By reframing objects and cultural symbols, he alters traditional interpretations, encouraging viewers to reconsider social and historical narratives. Since his groundbreaking and historically significant exhibition Mining the Museum (1992) at the Maryland Historical Society, Wilson has been the subject of many solo exhibitions.

Renee Stout grew up in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania and received her BFA from Carnegie Mellon University in 1980. She looks to the belief system of African peoples and their descendants throughout the African Diaspora, as well as to the world and her immediate environment, for the inspiration to create works that encourage self-examination, self-empowerment and self-healing.

We had such a great Family Fun Night yesterday with students from the past, present and potentially the future. Thank you to all that showed their faces to roast marshmallows, hot dogs and spread the word about GlassRoots’ programs. We’d also like to send a huge thank you to Dorothy Gilliard; founder and president of FASNA LLC. For the past 10 years she has provided personalized financial aid services to college-bound families throughout New York and New Jersey. She is also a frequent workshop speaker for high schools, community colleges, and civic associations and did an marvelous job of helping our students in their journey to higher learning.

It’s been a fun filled Summer at GlassRoots this year! We’ve installed a new workshop for only $10 for lunch-goers in the Newark area could enjoy. The entire program is marketed and run by our YLC’s (Youth Leadership Corp’s).

YLC’s are students who are trained as counselors and mentors of our programs. The YLC’s create, learn and grow intellectually, socially and emotionally and apply this experience to their resumes and school applications. During the Walk-in Workshops YLC’s spend no more than a half-hour teaching the curious passing by how to make a glass bead, etch a magnet or pendant and even how to craft a paperweight. So far the workshops have been a huge success - new, fun and memorable experiences have been created for people each time and we couldn’t be more proud. Drop in for one of these one-of-a-kind workshops between 12-1pm during the last few dates listed to show your support!

In just TWO DAYS Halsey Street will come alive for #HalseyFest with local bands, DJ’s, art, food, games and much more! (Thursday, September 7th from 4-8:30pm) Stop by GlassRoots to see live glassblowing and flameworking.
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#glassrootsinc #halseyfest2017 #vendor #art #glassblowing #flameworking #newark #feativalseason #festival #ngo #artsorganization #twodaystogo #backtoschool #welcome #food #play #shop #meet #network #kids #forthekids #entertainment #music #dancing #dance #wholefoods #barnseandnoble #rutgers #prudential #newarkpulse #teachersvillage #barcade #games #mascot #demo #community #newarknj (at GlassRoots)