The Arts

Public art project JumpstART kicking off in Riverhead

Artists Charlene Pulsonetti (left) of Remsenburg and Caitlin Shea of Melville are working on two separate projects for the upcoming JumpstART Artist's public art projects sponsored by the East End Arts this August. Ms. Pulsonetti will be installing  a 'Peculiar Peccary "Sanctum" which she is weaving a rug for out of the cloth she is holding. Ms. Shea is painting an animal mural and painted sculpture on this property on East Main Street and McDermott Avenue. (Credit: Barbaraellen Koch)
Artists Charlene Pulsonetti (left) of Remsenburg and Caitlin Shea of Melville are working on two separate projects for the upcoming JumpstART Artist’s public art projects sponsored by the East End Arts this August. Ms. Pulsonetti will be installing a ‘Peculiar Peccary “Sanctum” which she is weaving a rug for out of the cloth she is holding. Ms. Shea is painting an animal mural and painted sculpture on this property on East Main Street and McDermott Avenue. (Credit: Barbaraellen Koch)

In addition to the Kickstarter campaign, Ms. Shea is selling hummingbird key chains for $20 at local farmers’ markets.

Charlene Pulsonetti, who will be creating a sanctum, or place of peace — an idea that was inspired by months of traveling and working out west — has already surpassed her $300 goal. She said any donations she receives beyond this amount will allow her to expand on the project.

While helping artists understand the business side of the profession is an important aspect of JumpstART, Ms. Snyder said she also wants to see this project help businesses in downtown Riverhead.

So far, she said, businesses have been eager to work with the artists. As the date for the public arts project’s unveiling draws near, she hopes to see businesses and artists work together to create a cohesive display.

“We’re looking to have businesses and restaurants think out of the box, maybe have menu items that relate to the arts in some way,” Ms. Snyder said.

She said the artists are already engaged in the community, which is excited for the works to come.

“I met with the artists a few days ago, and the energy from other artists is so great,” Ms. Pulsonetti said. “We’re bringing Riverhead to life like no other town has seen before.”

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