Allentown’s 250TH Legacy Project

Allentown’s Founder, William Allen was a major supporter of the arts. In fact, he supported a young struggling artist named Benjamin West by sending him to Italy to study. West went on to become one of the greatest painters of his time. It is fitting that in our 250th year we undertake a Legacy Project that demonstrates our City’s appreciation for the fine arts still today. The collection of public art that Allentown has is truly a treasure.

The Legacy Project will include an inventory of all public art throughout the City: sculpture, murals and the like. All relevant information about the pieces will be recorded including the location and condition. The inventory will also include photographs. This catalog will help to serve as a critical resource as we move forward with the Legacy Project.

A second phase will include developing a policy and plan for restoration, maintenance, placement and education for public art in Allentown. Guidelines and procedures will help Allentown to manage its public art collection.

The third phase includes restoring artwork and establishing an ongoing maintenance plan. It will also include placing signage for all public artwork which will include information such as the artists’ names and information on who donated the piece and who helped to fund restoration as well as the year.

With a strong public art program in place, it will open doors for the City to better promote these treasures to residents, visitors and art enthusiasts. We are exploring partnerships with our local colleges’ fine art programs for internships and education programs to become involved with this important project.