New York City ’s public schools are home to more than 1,500 pieces of art, which are explored in a new book, Public Art for Public Schools.
The book catalogs and analyzes some of the art and architecture in the City’s public schools. The works range from WPA murals and Tiffany Studios stained glass to modern and contemporary works by Hans Hofmann, Ben Shahn, Romare Bearden, and Faith Ringgold.
Earlier this month, more than 500 of New York City’s art and education professionals gathered at Gracie Mansion for the release of the book, written by Michele Cohen of the School Construction Authority with photographs by Stan Ries.
“There are few places more public than the schools 1.1 million students attend,” Mayor Michael Bloomberg said. “Arts education is really so important and this book highlights the work so many people do in this city. As we build new schools for future generations, we will continue the tradition of creating dynamic and vibrant learning environments where students can thrive academically and artistically," said the Mayor.
Public Art for Public Schools’ release coincides with the twentieth anniversary of both the NYC School Construction Authority, which designs and builds new schools, and the SCA’s program also called Public Arts for Public Schools, headed by Cohen, which conserves art in schools.
“Little did I know that I would discover art of this magnitude,” said Cohen of the gems she found while researching for the book. "I am delighted that I can now share this [work].” She dedicated the book and her work to her sons, both of whom attend New York City public schools, and to all past and future students.
Many schools created during the Bloomberg Administration are featured in Public Art for Public Schools. Twenty-two new school buildings will open in September, and the SCA’s current capital plan calls for 116,000 new classroom seats by the year 2012.
At the event, guests browsed the book and many looked for the schools they had attended or now work in, including Larcelia Kebe, a former teacher and principal. “I’m learning things that I never knew about the schools in the city,” she said as she looked at images of Morris Educational Campus, a Collegiate Gothic school built in 1904.
“We are committed to outstanding school architecture and providing students with learning environments that are both welcoming and inspiring,” said Chancellor Klein, who described the book as “wonderful, eye-opening tour.”
All proceeds from the sale of the book will go to The Fund for Public Schools and the Mayor's Fund to Advance New York City to support arts education.