Mural project at Hartford Public Library

Hartford Public Library
500 Main St., Hartford, (860) 695-6300
American Mural Project
Oct. 28—Nov. 29 2009.
Exhibit opening: Wed., Oct. 28, 11 a.m.
Artist's reception: Fri., Nov. 13, 5:30—7 p.m.

Press release

At 11 a.m. on Oct. 28, Hartford Public Library will open an exhibit of giant painted sections from the American Mural Project. When completed, this huge three-dimensional painting—120 feet long, 48 feet high, and 6—8 feet deep—will be the largest indoor collaborative artwork in the world. The exhibit is free and open to the public through November 29th during library hours.

"Hartford Public Library and the American Mural project is a win-win partnership. The Library's glass walls and natural ambient lighting, combined with a 25-foot ceiling, will offer Connecticut artist Ellen Griesedieck's amazing three-dimensional artwork a truly unique exhibition space. The Library is delighted to be able to provide people of all ages and backgrounds in our community the opportunity to participate in American art culture," said Mary Crean, chief development officer, Hartford Public Library.

A tribute to the American worker, the American Mural Project (AMP) was founded by artist Ellen Griesedieck. She is visiting all 50 states and working with people of all ages who are helping her create pieces that will be included in the final artwork.

After eleven years of work, more than one third of the mural is finished and over 10,000 people have contributed to the effort.

The exhibit will feature pieces of the mural, some up to 30 feet high, as well as walking tours, lectures, and projects scheduled all month for students and adults at the library. Throughout the month, AMP will also be leading art activities with kids from local schools, the Wadsworth Atheneum, and many other organizations around the city.

"Eleven years ago, when I started this project as a tribute to working people in America, I could never have imagined it would morph into this giant barn raising of art."

Ms. Griesedieck will be at the library on Oct. 28 and 29 and Nov. 11, 17, 18, 24 and 28. On those days, visitors will be invited to paint, draw, and write on one of AMP's eight-foot recycled paper-pulp 'links,' which will be included in the finished mural along with other similar links that people are now creating across the country. This is your chance to contribute to the piece that will represent the Greater Hartford area.