A Pop of Color Near Pulaski Street
Downtown Glen Cove just got a little bit brighter. In an effort to bring more original art into the downtown area, the Glen Cove Downtown Business Improvement District (BID) and the Glen Cove Youth Bureau worked together to complete a mural on previously bare wall near the Pulaski Street parking garage. In less than a month from proposing the concept, the project came to fruition, creating a design of colorful violets for residents to enjoy.
Patricia Holman, executive director of the Glen Cove Downtown BID, met with Jacki Yonick and Natalie Tenke of the Youth Bureau prior to beginning the project. The Youth Bureau’s Summer Youth Employment Program (SYEP) often works with the BID on various projects and the idea came after discussing needs within downtown.
“I thought we could paint the wall as a test to see how people would react to art in the downtown area,” said Holman. “If no one is receptive, it could always be repainted.”
The mural, however, is more than just a repainted wall. The flowers are actually symbolic to Glen Cove.
Tenke, an artist, did her research, drew some sketches and submitted them for approval. While brushing up on Glen Cove history, she learned that the violet is the official city flower of Glen Cove.
“I love the violet,” said Holman. “It’s a strong, yet delicate flower and the colors are so vibrant.”
After Tenke sketched it out on the wall, two teams from the SYEP spent about two weeks painting it, with paint supplied by the BID.
“It is very inspiring when the Glen Cove Downtown BID can work with the children from the Summer Youth Employment Program and bring beautiful art to the downtown area,” said Holman. “Natalie Tenke brought history of Glen Cove, majestic color and elegant art in her art and the SYEP not only did a beautiful job in executing the project but clearly took great pride.”
Several BID board members agreed.
City Councilwoman and board member Pam Panzenbeck said, “The SYEP must feel a tremendous amount of satisfaction for the beauty they created. It’s just stunning!”
“This art will inspire me to walk pass here to look at the art,” said board member Mary Cooper.
Yonick said she was happy to help facilitate the project for her program members.
“It’s always exciting to see our young people take pride in their work and their community, and we are very excited at the Youth Bureau to provide these opportunities for teens as well as a fantastic opportunity for Natalie to showcase her artistic ability while working with the Green Teams,” said Yonick. “Thank you to Patricia and the Downtown BID for asking us to collaborate on this special project this year.”
For the teens, it gave them an opportunity to explore their creative sides while doing their part to enhance the city they live in.
“I like painting,” said SYEP student Anaysza Ashby. “I never painted a wall and was excited to do this project. I like improving the town.”
“It’s fun and I am happy to see the colors and the flowers in the community,” said Giselle Salinas.
Jessica Amaya noted, “This is an example how this program cares about the community and to make it better.”
“It shows how people come together for the betterment of the community,” said Allyna James. “It’s a labor of love.”
Holman hopes that, with the success of this project, it will inspire more artistic ventures within the downtown.
“The BID looks forward to more art popping up in the downtown area,” she said.
For further information, contact the Glen Cove Downtown Business Improvement District at 516.759.6970 or info@glencovedowntown.org.
