Yonkers Arts Partners With Housing Authority to Bring 150+ Artworks to Seven of Its Properties
The Yonkers Housing Authority and Yonkers Arts recently unveiled a colorful mural titled “Come Up” by Yonkers artist Robin Alcantara at Calcagno Homes. The mural is one of more than 150 pieces of art that have been installed across seven Yonkers Housing Authority properties. The two-year public art project was funded by the Mulford Corporation, with Yonkers Arts coordinating the project using local artists and artists of color.
The Yonkers Housing Authority manages 1,700 units of housing and provides affordable housing through its Housing Choice Voucher Program. The idea to enhance the properties with artwork was the conceived by the housing authority’s president and CEO, Wilson Kimball, who referenced the health benefits of viewing public art. Reports support the idea that viewing public art helps to increase peoples’ serotonin levels and cognitive brain function.
The board allocated $200,000 to commission Yonkers Arts for the project. Displayed artwork includes colorful murals, framed watercolors, oils, and pen and ink drawings.
Says Ray Wilcox, Executive Director of Yonkers Arts: “Through exploring multiple techniques and mediums, this project allowed us to understand the needs of each resident to enhance their living experiences.”
The artwork not only enhances the visual appeal of the housing properties but also has a positive impact on the residents’ health. This project serves as an example of how public art can uplift and enhance the living experiences of residents in affordable housing communities.
So far, works by more than a dozen artists have been added among the following properties: Walsh Houses, Calcagno Homes, Charles L. Curran Court, Kris Kristensen Homes, John E. Flynn Manor, Martinelli Manor and Monsignor Troy Manor.
About ArtsWestchester
Founded in 1965, ArtsWestchester is New York State’s largest private not-for-profit arts council. The leading funder and advocate for the arts in Westchester and Rockland Counties, ArtsWestchester works to create an equitable, inclusive, vibrant and sustainable community in which the arts are integral to and integrated into every facet of life. Building on its 60-year legacy, ArtsWestchester advances arts and culture by providing grants, bringing artists into schools and community centers, advocating for the arts, and building audiences through diverse marketing initiatives. ArtsWestchester enriches the lives of everyone in the community and operates a multi-use gallery and home for the arts at 31 Mamaroneck Ave. in White Plains, New York.