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WHEREAS, the Arts Excursions Unlimited project started as a two year artist residency that consisted of fact finding and trust building in its first year, and the implementation of “field trips” selected by Hazelwood residents in its second year ;and,
WHEREAS, in spite of the decline Hazelwood suffered following the closure of the last steel mill, Hazelwood has retained many natural assets, and it is this project, sponsored by the Office of Public Art and funded by the Heinz Endowments, that underscores the resilience of the people of Hazelwood; and,
WHEREAS, the single most important element of the Arts Excursions Unlimited Project would be Edith Abeyta. Her quiet yet dynamic presence has encouraged residents of all ages to try new things, bridge divides and connect residents to the social, cultural and physical assets and places of our region. Born in Los Angeles and currently living in North Braddock, Edith Abeyta is an accomplished installation artist focused on relationship building, collaboration and community involvement. Through this strategy, she has redefined the meaning of public and community art in Pittsburgh and has brought Hazelwood’s community vision to reality; and,
WHEREAS, Edith has facilitated this artistic vision in woodworking, silkscreen printing, photography, jewelry making, fiber optic art design and the beautification of public spaces.
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NOW, THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Council of the City of Pittsburgh does hereby recognize the imperative of public art expressed in a variety of ways and congratulates Edith Abeyta for her vision in implementing Arts Excursions Unlimited , to unifying and inspiring the residents of Hazelwood and for sharing her work, her passion and her art with Pittsburgh ; and,
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the Council of the City of Pittsburgh does hereby declare Tuesday, February 26, 2019, to be “ EDITH ABEYTA DAY ” in the City of Pittsburgh.