The George A. and Margaret Mee Foundation has recently awarded the Sylvan Heritage Council a generous grant to be used for the introduction of public art to the town of Emporium and Cameron County. Renowned Pennsylvania muralist, Michael Pilato, whose work can also be seen on Heister Street in State College and on West Fourth Street in Williamsport, has identified Emporium and Cameron County as the desired location for his next work of public art. This is an unbelievable honor and a monumental opportunity for our community.
Sylvan Heritage Council President, Jeanmare Holjencin, says through private donations and grants, more than $30,000 has been raised to date for the mural project. Several murals are already in the works, but the largest, a military-themed community mural, will be a significant contribution to the beautification of our community. "The community mural will depict soldiers, both past and present, from Cameron County. Michael plans to use a mock-flagstone background for the faces of local soldiers. The flagstone will represent the flagstone quarried from Cameron County that surrounds the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier in Arlington National Cemetery and the images of the soldiers will be chosen from public input.
"The community mural will be painted over a two-day period this spring on parachute material. Cameron County students, senior citizens, veterans, and residents are asked to help paint the mural which will then be installed over a yet-to-be determined brick building in downtown Emporium. The Cameron County Vets Club has volunteered their venue for the painting of the mural.
Relatives and friends of those who have served, or are currently serving, in the military are asked to submit names and pictures of those they would like to see depicted in the mural. The Sylvan Heritage Council and Michael Pilato will review the requests and make the final determinations. When submitting your requests, please be sure to include a note as to why that particular soldier should be considered. Requests can be mailed to Sylvan Heritage Council, P.O. Box 216, Emporium, dropped off at the Cameron County Chamber of Commerce, or the Cameron County Vets Club. Pictures will be returned in their original condition.
Everyone is encouraged to visit Michael's website at www.pilatomurals.com<;http://www.pilatomurals.com> for a better idea of this artist's incredible talent.
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