When we first put those words on the back of the single house the people who hung around the corner didn't like it, but eventually they understood. Art and what it can mean to people when they feel they are part of it is symbolized by this house and park on America Street. In my opinion, Menotti missed the boat completely on what art is really all about. And they sure as hell don't realize what a difference it has made in East Side. Alston is in the process of refurbishing the single-house for a summer program for East Side kids that has been in place since 1991.
Participants learn about art, history, construction and their culture.
Alston will also re-erect the billboard depicting black kids looking at the black nationalist flag. The refurbishing coincides with Redden's return last October as general manager of Spoleto. As general manager, Redden is responsible for fund-raising, administration, marketing, union negotiations, artist contracts, board development and programming. Just as Alston keeps the America Street corner alive with an art project made possible by Redden's idea, Redden is breathing new financial and artistic life into Spoleto. These are among the 114 performances of 45 programs the festival will present from May 24 through June 9.