Groundswell Community Mural Project and Catskill Watershed Corporation Partner with Row New York

Featured Image: “We All Share One Sky” via www.groundswellmural.org

By Roxy Capron

We are excited to announce that Groundswell Community Mural Project and Catskill Watershed Corporation are partnering with Row New York to design and create a series of three mural banners.

Groundswell is an organization that seeks to make change in communities through art. Their mission is to bring together artists, youth, and community organizations to use art as a tool for social change for a more just and equitable world. Their projects beautify neighborhoods, engage youth in societal and personal transformation, and give expression to ideas and perspectives that are underrepresented in the public dialogue. We care deeply about the conservation of the waters that give our students the opportunity to row each day, and we support Groundswell’s joining of youth and community in artistic expression.

This project will explore conservation and environmental stewardship, while raising awareness of the rich history and present-day use of the water around New York City. Through the school year, Groundswell artists will extensively research environmental issues through field trips and meetings with professionals and activists.

To prepare for their project, the young artists toured Peter Jay Sharp Boathouse, the home base of our Manhattan rowers. After learning about rowing equipment, they took turns holding an oar and even observed some of our masters rowers in action. Afterwards, they asked questions about the imagery of rowing, how rowers feel on the water during practice and competition, and about the specific goals of our organization. Then they took to sketching. From the looks of their sketchbook, we’re sure the banners will be an amazing addition to our community!

We are eagerly looking forward to the banners’ unveiling, which will be in May. Be on the lookout for updates along the way!

Tags