(EAST GREENBUSH, NY — November 17, 2023) In a testament to the unifying power of art, East Greenbush's Hampton Manor Lake Park now boasts two vibrant murals that embody collaborative multi-generational efforts celebrating community identity and pride, thanks to the efforts of Empire State University Associate Professor Lisa D'Adamo-Weinstein, Ph.D. and members of the East Greenbush community. 

The completion of the murals marks the conclusion of a dynamic three-phased arts grant project led by D'Adamo-Weinstein. A trio of talented students from Columbia High School, Clover Rodgers '25, Lyla Maguffin '27, and Aries (Benaiah) Raphael '24, teamed up with D’Adamo-Weinstein for the final phase of the project showcasing their creativity and the power of art and youth engagement in the community.

Partnering with the Town of East Greenbush and funded by a grant from the New York State Council on the Arts and the Arts Center of the Capital Region, this initiative provided valuable artistic experiences for community members; allowed for youth-driven creativity; and demonstrated the extraordinary power of the arts in bringing people of all ages together. The Arts in the Parks grant unfolded in three distinct phases. 

Phase 1: D'Adamo-Weinstein initiated the project by offering free art classes in July and August at the Hampton Manor Lake Beach House, attracting a remarkable turnout of 118 community members eager to explore their artistic potential through plein air painting, phone-photography, collage, and family arts and crafts projects.

Phase 2: In September, D'Adamo-Weinstein curated a one-day arts show held in conjunction with the Town of East Greenbush Community Day at the East Greenbush Town Park. The exhibition showcased the talents of 25 local artists selected from 109 submissions. Artists ranged in age from 10 to 70+ in the categories of painting/drawing and photography/digital art. In their age group and category of painting/drawing, Maguffin and Rodgers were artists featured in the show earning first and third place respectively. Maguffin’s piece, “Last Good-byes,” also earned the community favorite distinction.

Phase 3: The grand finale of the grant involved the creation and completion of two murals in Hampton Manor Lake Park. Completed in a little more than 50 hours over three weekends in late October and early November, the murals have already served as a catalyst for community conversation, engagement, and beautification of a town park. 

The first mural, titled the "Community Mural," transcends its role as mere decoration. It intricately weaves together New York State symbols with the colorful handprints of over 80 community members, creating a living tapestry of shared expression. It’s whimsical and colorful creation was designed by Rodgers and Maguffin under D'Adamo-Weinstein's guidance. They were joined by Raphael, as the main artists of the mural, infusing their creativity into the vibrant artwork. Lisa O'Brien, supervisor of the Town of East Greenbush Community and Recreation Department, and clerk Donna Millet also supported the painting of the mural and played crucial roles in bringing the project to fruition. The Community Mural serves as a collaborative canvas, where individuals of all ages united to leave their mark in the form of flowers and butterflies.

The second mural, titled the "CommUNITY Spirit Mural," was conceptualized by Meaghan Hart, Deputy Commissioner of Public Works. Executed by Maguffin, Rodgers, and D'Adamo-Weinstein on the utility building in Hampton Manor Lake Park, this mural embodies the unity of East Greenbush. Representing local schools, the town logo, and elements of music and arts programs, the mural's butterfly wings outline signifies community pride and provides a photo opportunity for those who visit the park. Hart’s design emphasized the ideal that UNITY comes through pride and engagement in our communities. 

The community murals serve as a testament to the transformative power of art and community collaboration, providing a legacy for East Greenbush residents to enjoy. The mural project website offers additional details on the journey, including insights into the artistic process, interviews with the muralists, multimedia documentation, and a “Fun Facts” quiz for visitors to learn more about elements of the murals. 

Maguffin, Rodgers, Raphael, and D’Adamo-Weinstein, have not only enhanced the visual landscape of East Greenbush but has also fostered a sense of community pride and artistic appreciation that will endure for years to come. The Town of East Greenbush recognized their contributions, reading a proclamation into the town record on Wednesday, November 15, 2023, at Town Hall.