Inspired by Shimoyama’s works in the Museum’s collection, including February (2022) on view on the first floor and Le Mat (The Fool) (2022) on view in the Contemporary Gallery on the third floor, students explored themes of identity, memory, and transformation through storytelling. Across his body of work, Shimoyama uses fantasy and symbolism to frame his identity while also highlighting mentors, loved ones, and cultural figures. These influences continue to shape his commitment to fostering vibrant communities.
This year’s Alley Art Project mural, Infinity Park, celebrates and uplifts individuals who have meaningfully influenced students’ lives, incorporating the full spectrum of colors and flowers as symbols of optimism and connection. During mural design classes, each student created two interconnected works of art representing people who made a difference in their lives. Using upcycled clothing, textiles, jewels, artificial flowers, and paint, students adorned garments to honor mentors, family, and close friends who have offered them guidance and support in navigating life’s obstacles. They also selected and painted floral species on mural cloth to represent those individuals, and these botanical elements will be collaged into the final mural in August.
About the Alley Art Project
The Alley Art Project is a unique educational mural program designed to connect local students to both The Rockwell collection and their community at large. The Museum has partnered with the Corning-Painted Post High School Learning Center (HSLC) since the program’s inception in 2010, working with youth to beautify public spaces. The program has included many organizations during its lifespan, including the Laura Richardson Houghton Corning Youth Center (2012), and more recently SUNY Corning Community College (2022, 2024). The Alley Art Project embraces start-to-finish, project-based learning initiatives and the idea that public art has the power to bring people together, encourage conversation, and ignite the imagination.
Each mural project is inspired by art in The Rockwell’s collection and enables students to meaningfully contribute to the aesthetics of their community. Students are guided by artists and educators throughout the creative process by questioning ideas relevant to the project theme and selected objects. In a mural design course, students research and study art, learn about symbolism and design, and explore aspects of individual and community identity. This holistic program prioritizes civic engagement, offering students the opportunity to use the arts for exploration and self-expression, fostering safe dialogue, and developing a stronger sense of self.