Thomas Mann, internationally known jewelry and sculpture artist, is bringing a new community art project to the Lehigh Valley in July. The Trajectory Heart Project, which began in 2009 during an Artist in Residence program with the Studios of Key West, demonstrates the importance of bringing art to the community by publicly sharing the complete experience of building and documenting the sculpture. The project, which is hosted by Penn State Lehigh Valley, is enhanced by the partnerships of arts organizations and businesses in the community. Together they are offering educational opportunities that range from the studio to the business world.
Students and professional artists will work with Mann to create the Trajectory Heart Sculpture in a maker space that will be located on Seventh and Hamilton Streets in Allentown. The final work will be transported around the Lehigh Valley and photographed in different sites.
Mann, of New Orleans, grew up in Allentown, Pennsylvania where his fascination with art began. His techno-romantic art combines industrial aesthetics and materials with romantic and powerful messages.
“We are thrilled to host such a masterful artist and assist with his unique project. Everyone involved, from the business community to the arts community are helping to make this a truly special event,” said Ann Lalik, Penn State Lehigh Valley gallery director and arts coordinator.
In addition to the creation of the sculpture, Mann will conduct workshops and exhibits.
- Design for Survival: Entrepreneurial Thinking and Tactics for Artists lecture and interactive workshop (two day) | Baum School of Art, Allentown
- Studio metalworking workshop Found Object Sandwich (two day) | Penn State Lehigh Valley, Center Valley
- Lunch and Learn Lecture: Artist as Artrepreneur Allentown Art Museum
- Jewelry and sculpture exhibits and sales- ReFind Gallery on 7th Street
To register for workshops, visit the Lehigh Valley Arts Council's Box Office. For more information, contact Lalik at 610-285-5261 or [email protected].
