This website was designed especially fo you to consider my art for EXHIBITION and ACQUISITION.
My art theme is based on manhole covers, water covers, grates and drains, called “Grate Works of Art.” This art has historical significance, because it is a visual documentation of our Urban Landscapes.
Every year manhole covers are replaced, often with bland patterns stamped as foreign imports. Due to environmental regulations, many USA Foundaries could not compete with foreign imports. Some of my sculptures and prints have recorded the original streetscapes.
My collective artworks venerate the multitude of Utility Covers adorning our City Streets. These covers protect a host of valuable resources and are basically overlooked by the common man. They are not overlooked by the Municipal workers who must maintain them. So my art, in Essence, venerates the Cover Casretakers.
Collecting and exhibiting the ”Grate Works of Art” attracts a whole new viewing audience:including the “Cover Catakers.”
There are additional works available in all sizes from prints on hand made paper to miniature rotating sculptures. A studio visit can easily be arranged. (Plus I am not too far from Disney World).
The question most people ask is “Why did you ever pick such a ridiculous theme?” Some people even shake their heads when they think about the mundane iron covers we all walk over.
Well, it all began when I was a Mom going back to college to study art. I experimented in every style and medium possible.
Master Printer, Dan Welden advised me to settle on one style or medium. The distinguished professor of Art History, Lawrence Alloway looked at my little album of art creations and said, “You have a penchant for circles!”
Here are some of Mastrangelo’s Early Works:
What a conundrum?
“! how could I develop a style or theme using circles”? I wondered.
Eureka! One day I discovered two pages containing manhole cover photographs! Wow! “What a perfect theme! for me ” That was 1979 and I am still doing “Grate Works!”
Looking at the Gallery, you will note that some of the images are squeezed or compressed. Just click on the art image and it will revert to the correct proportions. To return to the Gallery, click on the X in the upper left corner.
I welcome your support and comments. I would love to know your favorites of my art. List the titles and tell why you like them.
The Florida Sculptors Guild exhibit runs from Oct 9 th- Oct. 26th
Here is Bobbi Mastrangelo’s Artist Statement: “Seattle Tribute” features a rough carved texture of colorful waves, swimming gals and fish. On a lowly sewer cover, “The Circle of Life” evokes a Prayer for Protection.
“Seattle Tribute” sculpture relief 32″ diameter by Bobbi Mastrangelo
The original gray iron sewer cover, “Water Ring,” was designed by Puget Sound-based artist Betsy Best-Spadaro in 2001. It depicts women, fish, orcas and a whale swimming in a circle around the central legend of “Sewer.” (Despite the idyllic depiction on this hatchcover, Seattle Public Utilities urges waymarkers not to attempt swimming in the city sewers. You will almost certainly be disappointed.)
In October of 2017, Bobbi was able to connect with the artist who is the original designer of the Seattle Hatch Cover, Besty Best -Spadaro. Her unique art can be viewed here:Betsy Best
Seattle Tribute by Bobbi Mastrangelo (side view 6″ depth)
Helen Anne Gately, Bobbi’s Seattle friend sent rubbings and photos of the original gray iron cover located on N 34th Street and Phinney Avenue to aid in her creation. Mastrangelo hand carved every detail in polystyrene builders’ foam. Bobbi’s environmental focus on water protection and conservation influenced her color palate of blues, greens, gold and silver.
Florida Sculptor Guild Exhibiting Members:
Dan Beard, Denisse Berlingeri, Cheryl Bogdanowitch, David Cumbie,
Marla E, Catherine Farrar, Arlene Friberg-Vivaldi, Iwaona Lys-Dobradin,
Bobbi Mastrangelo, Vicki Nanos, Bill Oatway, Suzanne Oberholtzer,
Jene Omens, Katty Smith, Susan Sturm-Menand, Woody Whitchurch,
Amy Wieck and Byron Walker.
A FREE opening reception will be held from
6 – 8 p.m., Saturday, October 21st.
Light refreshments will be provided.
If you get to see the exhibit, please comment on my blog. Thanks.
Casselberry Art House
127 Quail Pond Circle
Casselberry FL 32707
Bobbi Mastrangelo’s framed Giclee Prints are on exhibit in the Members Small Works Show of ArtistsRegistry.com at CityArtsFactory. Bobbi’s framed prints relate to her theme of water covers and manhole covers. The artist has personalized each one of her Giclee Prints by incorporating hand written quotes into the art.
“Pioneer Water Adapter” Enhanced Giclee 13″ x 16″ framed
“The way of the pioneer is always rough.” ~ Harvey S. Firestone.
Pioneer Water Adapter is based on a water valve cover of about 8″ in diameter. Water Valve covers are often located on sidewalks or near fire hydrants.
“Con Edison Cables” Enhanced Giclee, 16″ x 13″ Framed
“Con Edison’s 94,000 miles of cable could wrap the Earth 3.7 times.”
Details of Con Edison Electric Manhole Covers are featured in several of the Bobbi’s giclee prints.
“Complex Con Edison,” Enhanced Giclee 16″ x 13″ Framed
“Con Edison operates one of the most complex electrical systems in the world.”
The Giclee Prints were produced at Lisa Langer’s “Pencil in the River Studio” in Tonawanda NY. High quality digital images of Bobbi’s original embossed prints on hand made paper were printed on Somerset Water Color Paper, signed and numbered. Learn more about Langer’s printing services on her website: Pencil in the River Studio – Service
The three signed prints are double matted in handsome goldtone frames, available for only $125 @. Peruse the entire selection of Bobbi Mastrangelo’s unframed Giclee Prints here: Bobbi Mastrangelo-Grate Little Giclees
CityArts Factory is located at 29 S. Orange Ave., Orlando FL. 32801. Phone:(407) 648-7060 Hours: Tuesday – Saturday 11:00 AM – 6:00 PM
This is the triptych I entered for Baterbys exhibition. Below is a description of its meaning and how this art work relates to the Hispanic Culture.
“Da Gracias Por Agua” 22″ high by 47″ wide by 6″ deep
My Triptych “Da Gracias Por Agua.” (Give Thanks for Water) reveres the essential element: Water.
The first relief quotes several lines from Jorge Argueta’s poem “El Agua:” “El Agua Es Sagrada” (Water is Sacred) “Es La Sangre De La Madre Tierra.” (It is the Blood of Mother Earth.)
“Los Cuatro Elementos,” the center sculpture features the four element covers floated above concave wells: Earth (Tierra), Air (Aire), Water (Agua) and Fire (Fuego.)
Atl, the Aztec symbol for water, is centered in the starburst design of the third piece. “El Agua Es Una Bendición” (Water is a Blessing) and “Da Gracias Por Agua” (Give Thanks for Water) are inscribed in Spanish around the water fount. Masaru Emoto, author of “The True Power of Water,” influenced my message of Water as a Blessing.
View larger art images, side views and details of “Da Gracias Por Agua” Here:
“Go With the Flow,” sponsored by the Winter Garden Art Association opened August 3 rd and runs through Saturday, September 2 nd.
“I Forgot to Breathe” by Michelle Irizarry
This exhibition displays artwork in a variety of media relating to water created by over 60 local artists including featured artist Michelle Irizarry. All artwork is for sale.
Bobbi Mastrangelo who is known for her manhole themed “Grate Works of Art” art also creates “Water Works” based on water covers of all sizes.
“Water? ” collagraph 11″ x 14″ by Bobbi Mastrangelo
This embossed print on Bobbi’s handmade paper deals with our water supply. We the people are responsible for its conservation and protection.
“Three Waters” 11′ x 14″ Fiber Art by Bobbi Mastrangelo
Featured are cast paper replicas of two water valve covers, typically 6- 8″ in diameter and a hand hole cover which averages 4″ in diameter.
The Winter Garden Art Association hosts its marvelous SOBO Gallery with fascinating themed exhibits throughout the year. http://wgart.org Directions: SOBO is located in the “Old Fire Station” at 127 South Boyd Street in Winter Garden FL 34787 – Less than 1 block from Centennial Plaza in Winter Garden’s Historic Downtown.
Hours Tues, Wed, Thu, Fri, and Sat: 10am – 6pm Closed Sun, Mon, and Major Holidays.
Five of Bobbi Mastrangelo’s unique sculpture relief works will be on view from July 7 – October 31, 2017 in Orlando Museum Art’s 1st Thursdays Collaboration with the Hyatt Regency Hotel on International Drive.
Bobbi Mastrangelo’s Art in The Hyatt Regency Spa Hallway
The Orlando Museum of Art (OMA) and Hyatt Regency Orlando have formed a partnership that brings selections from the work of Central Florida artists from OMA’s monthly 1st Thursdays event to the Hyatt Regency Orlando and their guests.
Florida Storm Sewer (Do Not Pollute)
The 1st Thursdays Program of The Orlando Museum of Art and The Hyatt Regency have been exhibition partners for eighteen months. This partnership has been amazing because it gives the hotel guests a deeper glimpse into The Orlando Area Culture which is so much more than just a theme park area.
Mastrangelo’s Orlando Manhole Covers
Visitors are encouraged to see the Orlando Museum of Art to experience first hand their phenomenal collections, exhibitions, and programs.
Glendora Water and Inside 52GA-R
1st Thursday’s Art is showcased at the Hyatt in the hallway leading to their Fitness Center, just off of the Lobby and is rotated out every three months. They feature anywhere from 6-8 artists selected from the 1st Thursday’s Collection. What’s even more spectacular is that all 1st Thursday’s Artwork is available for purchase!
The artworks of Angelia Nunez Avila, Eric Llewellyn, Michael Rothwell, Phyllis Thomas, and Suzanne Micalizio are also featured in this exhibit.
Bobbi Mastrangelo with Best in Show at Orlando Museum of Art in 2014
Bobbi Mastrangelo with “Inside 52GA-R” which was a “Best of Show” winner at Orlando Museum of Art’s 1st Thursday Exhibition “Inside Out” in May 2014.
Hyatt Regency Orlando 9801 International Drive Orlando Florida 32819 USA
http://orlando.regency.hyatt.com
1st Thursdays
Orlando Museum of Art
2416 N. Mills Avenue
Orlando, FL 32803
“Florida Citrus 467-1” deeded to Orange County Regional History Center of Orlando Florida
On May 3, 2017, my mixed media sculpture went to its new home at Orange County Regional History Center in Orlando Florida. Now “Florida Citrus 467-1” has additional numbers. Its Official Accession Number is #2017.016.
Many of my creations have interesting stories of the challenges I encountered. Our Florida Artists’ Registry Members were invited to exhibit at Orlando Museum of Art’s First Thursday. I took the exhibit title “Florida Grown” literally. It had to have ORANGES. It had to relate to the growing processing production: suggesting or incorporating seeds, dirt, sun and water.
Styrofoam into Oranges
Do they Look Like Real Oranges?
The “Sunlight” behind the Water Cover was a Fluorescent Bulb with a plug in cord. Location of an outlet dictated my sculpture’s placement at the Florida Grown Exhibit. So my little sculpture was dwarfed on a panel centered between two giant abstract canvases by the same artist. To top it off, I don’t think there was another artist who addressed the theme of Florida Grown, except that the art works were “Grown in Florida.” The placement of “Florida Citrus 467-1” was So Disappointing.
“Florida Citrus 467-1” is out of place..wrong space.
My “Florida Citrus 467-1” received special attention at The Mills Pond House Members Exhibition in St. James NY. Alison Cruz displayed it on a sculpture stand so it was the focus of the room. I am still very fond of the Smithtown Township Arts Council where I showed some of my earliest works.
In one return shipment, the Fluorescent Bulb was smashed. The damaged corded light fixture was removed. A battery operated LED Fixture replaced it, which is now operated by remote. This offered a bright solution for placing the sculpture in future exhibitions.
Florida Citrus 467-1 on Exhibit at Orlando’s History Center with an Ideal Placement. It was an honor to exhibit at the History Center. The staff is amazing and the museum itself is a Treasure.
Whitney Broadaway, Bobbi Mastrangelo and Pam Schwartz at The History Center.
“Plastics Under Cover” “Grate Works of Art” my current exhibit has “Un Covered” new and exciting challenges. In a regular museum or gallery, labels only present a few details like the title and size of an art work.
But a History Museum, like Orlando’s Orange County Regional History Center, wants to “Un Cover” all the details. so many of the pieces are accompanied by text and photos showing the creation process.
“City of Orlando” its creation details and “The Square Route of Water”
So many transactions, e-mails and phone calls were involved in providing details about the art, that I was able to meet and appreciate the talented staff at OCRHC: Pam Schwartz, Curator of Exhibitions, Emilie Arnold, her Assistant and Whitney Broadaway, Collections Registrar.
“Water Works” Being Installed by Whitney Broadaway
Here is a communication from Emilie Arnold in March of 2016: “Right now, we’re tentatively planning an environmentally-focused local art exhibit to coincide with “Plastics Unwrapped.” This is a traveling exhibit out of the Burke Museum in Seattle that discusses the history and application of plastic materials and also their impacts on the environment.
“Plastics Unwrapped” runs from February 4 – April 23, 2017, so it’s still a year away, but we believe your work may fit in, and we really love that you have at least a few possible Orlando-focused works in hand.
We enjoyed watching “City of Orlando” highlighted in the UCF Artisode. Could you tell me more about “FDOT, Do Not Pollute” and “The City Beautiful”—even send photos if you have them?”
“Don’t Go Soft on Terrorism,” “FDOT,” “Con Edison” (on the pedestal)
“Grate Logo” by Cindy Merithew above Bobbi Mastrangelo’s bio
I enjoyed seeing my art at the History Center and experiencing the featured Visiting Exhibition: “Plastics Unwrapped” from Seattle’s Burke Museum at the opening on February 4, 2017. If you get to see the exhibits, please share your comments.
Orange County Regional History Center
Bobbi Mastrangelo’s”Plastics Under Cover” “Grate works of Art” January – April 23, 2017
“Plastics Unwrapped” Visiting Exhibition February 4, – April 23, 2017
It is every artist’s dream to be able to display artwork at a special location. So when I received this request I was delighted to participate.
Hi Bobbi,
I hope you and your family are doing well. I am writing because we are getting ready to open our second location in Patchogue, and I thought of you, and your wonderful grates. We are going with a steampunk theme, with pipes and gauges, and we’re looking for pieces that we’ll keep up for a while. I don’t know if you have any pieces that may need a home, but if there is, I’d love to show it. Your work would look so good at Toast Coffeehouse.
Terence Scarlatos
Toast Logo
Director of Operations at Toast Coffeehouse.
(Received via LinkedIn.com July 29, 2015)
I in 2003, I had a one woman exhibit at Toast Coffee House in Port Jefferson New York. It was a very successful exhibit even covered by Newsday. Terry Scarlatos is a very talented chef who created an artful ambiance at that restaurant. I felt honored to have my work highlighted at his second location. Steam Punk Art was a whole new arena for me and I rose to the occasion.
Bobbi Mastrangelo’s “Grate Works of Art” featured at Toast Coffeehouse in Patchogue, NY.
Michelle contacted me in September 2016, for permission to be included in her upcoming “October Manhole Madness” Blog Project. Would I say OK? Are you kidding? Her topic is a Manhole Artist’s Dream. I wondered how she would cover the topic for a total of 31 days! Well, I have been amazed and dazed by the variety and the artistry in all of her presentations.
On October 23, 2016 Michelle Ward introduced me on her blog:”Cover Girl”Bobbi Mastrangelo: http://michelleward.typepad.com/michelleward/2016/10/cover-girl-bobbi-mastrangelo.html.She covered many aspects of my art world and artistry including: art post cards, sculpture relief works and how they are created, embossed metal pieces, giclee prints and fiber art.
Here is a quote from Michelle Ward’s Blog: “Bobbi Mastrangelo is a mixed media artist like us – creating with several mediums in many sizes. Bobbi makes one-of-a-kind sculptures, with a long list of distinguished collectors, and she creates affordable prints and reliefs too. Incorporating paper casting, printmaking, sculpture, and paint – she is inventive, creative, and an environmental activist.
Her career began as an elementary school teacher, but she eventually found her way to art-making and has been at it for thirty-seven years. Bobbi’s site is very extensive and there is a lot to see. Visit her site and her blog at www.BobbiMastrangelo.com.”
PS Michelle Ward invites you to visit the whole month of October Manhole Madness. She and all the artists presented would welcome your comments. You just may catch the bug and be “Mad about Manhole Covers” in all forms!
In my last blog I introduced Michelle Ward’s Ambitious Project October Manhole Madness 2016. Every day of the month featured a different manhole marvel. If you have time to peruse the 31 day Manhole Cover Theme, you will be captivated (by the caps and covers of course.) Here are some of my favorite features:
October 4th:
I was happy to see the inclusion of Mimi Melnick’s Book “Manhole Covers” with photos by her husband Robert. For several decades Mimi and I were cheerleaders for each other’s work.
October 12th:Ildiko Laszlo’s Industrial Photos are impressive. She has lived in New York, Los Angeles, Paris, Budapest (where she was born) and Italy over time, each place and culture adding color to my photographic palette. She loves light and has a insatiable curiosity for mystery and the enchanting. Her California residence, has a driveway constructed with stonework and found iron lids of all shapes from scrapyards. The adjacent retaining walls are ornamented with tile, glass, and every kind of brick. http://www.ildikolaszlo.com/industrial/
Oct. 16: Russ Muits has been on the hunt for nearly ten years – finding great covers and taking prints from them Storm Print City. He also created a collection of goods that benefit the children of Flint. Water cover prints turn around and give back to improve water in an area that has been traumatized. http://Prints for Flint
is a photographic documentation that takes the viewer on a walking journey through the urban streets of various Canadian, Scottish and American cities. This work collects souvenirs of travelled cities around the world using manhole covers to depict exploration of geographical locations along the artist’s life journey. http://louiselevergneux.com/artistsbooks/#/city/
Post Card Book: “Grate Works” by Bobbi Mastrangelo
Oct 26: Dwight PritchettDwight refers to his rubbings as “lifts.” That is a new term for us, but that is what they are. Dwight makes the impression of a cover with conte crayon on canvas. Then he returns to his studio to complete the original “Lift.”
He says he takes inspiration from the lighting, surrounding color and environment to finish the composition. Some of his titles tell you exactly what time he was on the streets. He tells the story better – see it here: http://artbydwight.com/about/Dwight Pritchett has been invited to contribute his story and photos on “Grate Thoughts,” Soon we will learn more about his fascinating art.
Dwight Pritchett
Dwight Pritchett:
The Sister Bridges at 6:00 AM
Oct. 28 Michele Brody is a mixed media installation artist. Michele is a manhole cover designer too! Recovering the City Scape is a public art project that recognizes lost New York City history, specifically buildings which no longer exist. Special cast covers, designed by Michele which reference architectural details of these buildings, will be placed near their locations. http://www.recoveringthecityscape.com Michele Brody’s historically oriented project begins with one unique cover designed to reference the former Assay Office.
Day 28 Read about Michele Brody’s Tours! of NY Underfoot and her Urban Illuminations based on manhole covers: http://michelleward.typepad.com/michelleward/2016/10/more-commissions.
Thanks to Michelle Ward for a fascinating topic explored in depth. Your readers love circles + pattern. They loved observing the differences and similarities in the common objects you championed
The city of Pittsburgh supplies Dwight with a rich abundance of history and inspiration when he rides his bicycle over it’s streets and sidewalks. Dwight has enjoyed working on a project that he calls Manhole Art. These functional pieces of metal were designed as practical windows into the earth below our man made world. Dwight Pritchett creates contemporary art from the graphically and historically interesting manholes that we walk over everyday.
Street-Art by Dwight Pritchett
Dwight was born in Wilkinsburg, PA and lived in various other locations until he ended up back in Pittsburgh pursuing a degree at the Art Institute. He worked as an airbrush artist at several studios until he started his own business (Pritchett Studio) pritchettstudio.com. Along with his wife Bonnie, the studio has successfully evolved into an award-winning digital photo-illustrating business. Their talented daughter, Mollie has recorded his art with impressive photographs.
Dwight Pritchett 2012
These functional pieces of metal were designed as practical windows into the earth below our man made world. Dwight creates contemporary art from these graphically and historically interesting manholes that we walk over everyday. Dwight refers to his rubbings as “lifts” Dwight makes the impression of a cover with conte crayon on canvas then returns to his studio to complete the piece.
Before and After
Dwight says he takes inspiration from the lighting, surrounding color and environment to finish the composition. Some of his titles tell you exactly what time he was on the streets.
Dwight Pritchett: The Sister Bridges at 6:00 AM
He is able to duplicate the actual size and design a manhole cover on canvas. With the magic of color and shading, he turns them into a piece of art to hang in a home or office. The oldest cover he did is on the North Side of Pittsburg dated 1845. Dwight feels that his art has something to offer guests visiting our city and to inspire people who live in Pittsburg.
ArtByDwight.com: Street Art
Examine his Street Art above and notice the hidden figure hovering over the covers. : https://www.facebook.com/ArtbyDwight/welcomes your comments here and on his website or Facebook page. Visit Dwight’s web site artbydwight.com or Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/ArtbyDwight/.
The York Yorktown Museum in New York now houses my post card collections in their archives.
Bobbi Mastrangelo and Her NPCW Post Card Collection
In 2015 I affiliated with American Art Collector who published 1,000 post cards of each artist’s work each year. From 1991 to 2015, I had been sending, saving and filing post cards related to National Post Card Week (NPCW). After 24 years, I decided to donate my collections and concentrate on my art career. Post Card Enthusiasts and Deltiologists will be able to view the whole collection at The Yorktown NY Museum: Yorktownmuseum.org
You are welcome to receive Free Post Cards from my older collection or American Art Collector Post Cards. Send a SASE for Four Free Cards or two stamps for Eight Free Post Cards. E-mail me for my address: [email protected] Many of these post cards cards are still available: http://bobbimastrangelo.com/postcards.php
Each year, Orange County and the nation observe Hispanic Heritage Month by celebrating the histories, cultures, and contributions of Americans whose ancestors came from Spain, Mexico, the Caribbean, and Central and South America.
The observation began in 1968 as Hispanic Heritage Week and was expanded in 1988 by President Ronald Reagan to the 30-day period from September 15 to October 15.
The date of September 15 was chosen because it’s the anniversary of independence for Latin American countries Costa Rica, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras, and Nicaragua.
Mexico and Chile also celebrate their independence days on September 16 and September 18, respectively. October 12, celebrated as Columbus Day or El Día de la Raza, also falls within Hispanic Heritage Month.
Pictured are Water Cover details from the three sculpture relief works.
More “Grate News” Bobbi Mastrangelo’s Triptych: “Dar Gracias Por Agua” was also chosen as an Award of Excellence Winner: Celebrating Healing Arts on Manhattan Arts 2016. Scroll down: http://www.manhattanarts.com/hpa-2/
Two Sisters Close in Age, Far Apart in Art Themes:
Bobbi’s Manhole Art Theme deals with “The Gateway to the Underground,” contrasted with her sister’s Ethereal Landscapes containing hidden Angels. Judie Pufpaff’s Theme: “The Spirit Within” contemplates “The Gateway to Heaven!”
Bobbi Mastrangelo and her sister Judie Pufpaff
Most of the Blog Readers are familiar with Bobbi Mastrangelo’s Manhole Art. This sculpture relief is featured in The American Art Collector 2016 by Alcove Books.http://collector.ac/
“City of Orlando” by Bobbi Mastrangelo
Now you have the opportunity to meet her sister, Judie Betschen Pufpaff who tells us her story! Here is her piece in American Art Collector 2016: “Walk in the Light” Isaiah 2:5
“Walk in the Light” by Judie Pufpaff
Judie says: “Sharing a childhood home gave us (and our siblings) opportunities to explore and create the life every child would love. Our parents encouraged the fine arts along with a very strong vein of independent thinking.
Imagine a home in the hills of Springville, New York that resounded with music and laughter. Our neighboring farmers probably rolled their eyes at the “city folk” trying to raise 6 children with chickens, a pet pig and acres of strawberries, while our dad drove into Buffalo each day where he sold Electrolux vacuum cleaners door to door.
Bobbi, baby Claire, Judie and our dog in 1948.
Now, as I look back, I think of us as the Springville “Von Trap Family,” singing and playing whenever possible. Hard work, honesty, high marks in school, being fine citizens and good neighbors were attributes highly prized by our parents.
Bobbi and I were the oldest, enjoying all of the rewards and responsibilities as such. We were very different: Bobbi always looked for challenges, gave every endeavor 150%, while I chose easy, fun, pretty projects. I would plant flowers or run to the woods to read a new book, as Bobbi tackled a huge report or essay. I chose easy “A” classes, while Bobbi chose the most difficult.
The Betschen Bunch: Lois, Claire, Rick, Bobbi, Fred and Judie
We are still very different in creativity, Bobbi loves sewer grates while I paint landscapes of sunshine and flowers. I always choose “pretty and elegant” while Bobbi chooses unique. We are appreciative of each others talents and pursuits, as we are of our younger siblings, all very talented and ambitious. We are blessed!!!”
Love,
Your sister,
Judie Betschen Pufpaff from Williamsville NY
Bobbi Mastrangelo adds: “My sister Judie inspires me with her ethereal, sublime landscapes. Visit her website to see more of her exquisite landscapes. http://www.judiepufpaff.com/index.html
Lois, Bobbi, Claire and Judie at The Castile Farm, NY 2006
After my sisters posted their comments, I added the above photo to show the fun we have when we are together.
Here is Judie’s recent art work that was exhibited with The Buffalo Society of Artists:
“Quietness and Assurance” (Isaiah-32:17) by Judie Pufpaff
Bobbi Mastrangelo’s Triptych “Da Gracias Por Agua” will be exhibited at the Orlando Museum of Art’s 1st Thursday in May: CINCO DE MAY-OMA! Ole! Reception 6-9 PM
Member Artists of ArtistsRegistry.com. celebrate Cinco de Mayo on May 5th with their own interpretations of Mexican life, through the mediums of paintings, drawings, photography or sculpture.
Da Gracias Por Agua (triptych 21″ x 48″)
Bobbi Mastrangelo is internationally known for her unique wall relief city-scape interpretations of water covers and manhole covers. Her Triptych created just for this Mexican Themed Event is collectively titled: “Da Gracias Por Agua.” (Give Thanks for Water)
The first sculpture relief, entitled “Agua Sagrada,” pays homage to Jorge Argueta’s Poems in “Hablando con Madre Tierra.” (“Talking with Mother Earth” illustrated by Lucia Angela Pérez) His powerful, inspirational bi-lingual poems explore a young native Salvadoran boy’s connection to Mother Earth. Tetl’s Grandmother taught him about the spirituality of his Nahuatl Ancestors viewing the Earth as being alive with sacred meaning.
Aqua Sagrada (Sacred Water)
The text inscribed around the simulated water fount is “El Agua Es Sagrada.” (Water is sacred) “Es La Sangre de La Madre Tierra. (It is the blood of Mother Earth.) Jorge Argueta graciously gave permission for me to use these words from his poem “El Agua.”
Los Cuatro Elementos (21″ dia. x 6″) & El Agua Es Una Bendición
With water conservation and protection as a recurrent theme, Bobbi envisioned the center piece with “Covers” representing The Four Elements “Los Cuatro Elements:” Tierra, Aire, Agua y Fuego. The four covers float above metallic colored concave wells.
El Agua Es Una Bendición
Bobbi enjoyed researching the ancient Aztec, Mayan and Nahuatl Cultures for the borders and designs of the two outside pieces. Atl, the Aztec symbol for water is located in the center of the starburst design.
But it was the contemporary Water Researcher, Masaru Emoto, author of The True Power of Water who influenced the text of the above piece. “Water is a Blessing, Give Thanks for Water,” Bobbi inscribed the Spanish Translation around the water fount: “El Agua Es Una Bendición. Da Gracias Por Agua.”
Emoto believes that: “It is our individual responsibility to learn all we can about water, the most precious resource on the planet and to help shift the consciousness through our thoughts, words and prayers. May our understanding of water help to bring peace to all mankind.”
Bobbi felt Spiritually Blessed as she created this triptych and hoped that Argueta’s philosophy about honoring Mother Earth and Emoto’s revelations about water would resonate to the viewers.
Twitter Art Exhibit: NYC is an international exhibition of original postcard art benefiting Foster Pride’s “Handmade” Program, in which young women in foster care learn to create and market a unique line of goods. The entire exhibition is carried out by an unpaid, volunteer corps of organizers and artists; there is no entry fee, and artists of all career levels are encouraged to participate, making it possible for emerging talent to appear alongside seasoned professionals.
Twitter Art Exhibit: NYC is the sixth installment of an open international exhibition of handmade postcard art for charity, donated by hundreds of participating artists from around the globe.
“Of Manhattan” by Bobbi Mastrangelo USA
TWITTER ART EXHIBIT: NYC
Benefiting Foster Pride’s “Handmade” Program
OPENING EVENT: Thursday, March 31, 2016 – 6:00 to 8:30 PM
Exhibition runs March 31st – April 21st
Trygve Lie Gallery
317 E 52nd St. New York NY 10022
EACH HAND CREATED ART PIECE SELLS FOR ONLY $35.00 or three for $95.What an amazing opportunity to purchase original art!
The idea is simple: artists around the globe receive a call through Twitter social media to create original postcard-sized art, which they mail to a local curator, who then exhibits and sells them to benefit a local charity.
Opening Night Schedule: March 31, 2016
Arrival: 6:00PM
Speeches begin: 7:00PM
Reception & sales through 8:30PM
1 card for $35
3 cards for $95
Speakers:
Isha Setia, Curator of Twitter Art Exhibit: NYC
Thor-Erik Fjellvang, Director of Trygve Lie Gallery
Lynn Schnurnberger, Foster Pride
David Sandum, Creator of Twitter Art Exhibit
How did a USA Artist become acquainted with Russian Artists in Moscow? I was actively engaged in artwork based on the theme of Manhole Covers, when a colleague, Michele Brody, a designer of NYC Manhole Covers, http://michelebrody.com suggested that I apply to be on the “Sewers of the World Unite” website.
Sewers of the World Unite (website: sewers.artinfo.ru)
On Laughter Day 2000 (Our April Fools’ Day) Two enterprising artists, Alexander (Sasha) Kholopov and Natalie (Natasha) Lamanova from Moscow posed a mail art project just for fun. They invited artists from all over the world to send photos of manhole covers to their website. So April Fools’ Day was the start of something “Grate.” Artists from 40 countries enthusiastically responded to the E-mail request.
Sasha, Bobbi and Natasha in their Moscow Apartment in 2001.
In August 2001, my husband, Al sang with Barbershop Harmony Choruses in St. Petersburg, Russia. The next week, we met Natasha and Sasha in Moscow and were invited to their apartment for dinner. They were not comfortable speaking in English and I knew only a few Russian Words, but their warm hospitality, and our love of music and art bridged the gap. Their bond and devotion to one another were heartwarming.
For a decade we maintained contact with them by overseas mail and e-mail. Sasha continued his artistamps and arranged some fascinating manhole art exhibits in Russia and Abroad.
The Moscow International Forum of Art Initiatives, 2004. Exhibition “Paradise” A.Kholopov exposition in “Pirogi” on Nickolskaya.
The “Sewer Cover” project reflects in an ingenious way Kholopov’s personal history as an artist throughout the isolation of the Soviet era. From the BBC to BB King to the Beatles, each sewer cover is dedicated to the many sources of stimulation and inspiration that sustained his art. Choosing the sewer cover as a vehicle for his project is an apt reflection of the sardonic and bitter-sweet humor that characterizes so much of Russian humor.
Sasha and Natasha at a Moscow Cafe
By 2009 the participation grew to 233 Persons who contributed 3,052 images of manhole covers and grilles from a total of 71 countries. Alexander Kholopov, a single artist, promoted more International Good will than many politicians accomplish. Sasha’s Drawing honors all the participants of “Sewers of the World, Unite.”
Sasha’s Drawing “Sewers of the World, Unite” & Participants
Sasha and Natasha especially enjoyed time in the country and working on their Dacha.
Natasha and Sasha at their Dacha
On the fortieth Day after his passing, People from all over the world were celebrating Alexander Kholopov.
The fortieth day post mortem February 13, 2016 is of cultural significance in Russia and Natalie Lamanova is putting on an exhibition of Alexander’s work to coincide with his fortieth day.
Bobbi Mastrangelo and several colleagues appear in the WUCF-TV Artisode filmed at Winter Park’s Polasek Sculpture Museum. The PBS special was aired Thursday, Feb. 18th 2016.
Bobbi Mastrangelo with “Con Edison Concert”
“Sight Unseen: Touchable Sculpture” curated by Rachel Frisby is such a unique exhibition that it caught the attention of Buddy Pittman, Video Content Producer at WUCF- TV.
On Monday, January 25th Buddy and Mark Greenwald, The Video Producer interviewed the Curator, Rachel Frisby, Amy Wieck, Bobbi Mastrangelo, Byron Walker, Susan Menand and Kameron Lannan about how their art fit the touchable concept. They also filmed Amanda, Kameron’s Mother, to give a blind person’s experience with the art at The Albin Polasek Sculpture Museum in Winter Park, Florida. The Artworks are shown below. When you watch the WUCF-TV Video, you will feel as though you already know the sculptors.
368 fingers and 5-1/2 feet by Amy Wieck
Amy Wieck :“368 fingers and 5-1/2 feet” was created for Sight Unseen: Touchable Sculpture as a tactile experience that any attendee could enjoy on different levels. Visually the fingers become a pattern. To the touch, they become a texture. As the attendees run their hands across the piece, the flexibility of the silicone and the fact that they are fingers creates the sensation of being touched back. Hence, this becomes the sculpture that touches you back. The shape of the fingertips are reminiscent of the braille system and although no word was intended with the position of the fingers it is up to the “viewer” as to whether the pattern creates a word or two in braille. After all the meaning of art is ultimately up to the viewer visually impaired or not.”
“368 Fingers” (close-up)
Amy Wieck: “8 sculptors (spouse’s of sculptors too) gathered to make this pieces. It was a bonding experience and lots of fun. The lifecasting portion took 2 to 3 hours one afternoon and the group looked as if they were in a football huddle while the material took up to 15 minutes to set up in each of the 3 sections. Days later, after the silicone was cast into the life casting material, the sculptors were trying to identify their fingers and could not resist touching the piece.”
Byron Walker cozy in his “Hosey Chair”
Byron Walker’s Hosey Chair was very popular. So many museum visitors felt the texture, sat in the chair and had photos taken. And yes you guessed its composition: entwined garden hoses…actually about 1255 feet of garden hoses.
“Green Sea Turtle” by Susan Menand
Susan Menand’s “Green Sea Turtle” is composed of recycled materials: fused plastics, bags, water bottles, wrappers, over recycled chicken wire and buckets for the pedestal. Susan was inspired by the plight of sea turtles here in Florida that mistake ocean borne plastic bags for jelly fish (their primary food source), ingest them and die. Susan felt that we could draw attention to this alarming problem that is often times “unseen.” Museum Visitors touch the bubble wrap on the Turtle Shell and contemplate how we can protect our endangered Sea Turtles.
Moma by Kameron Lannan
Kameron Lannan’s mosaic sculpture is based on one of her drawings. For “Unseen Art,” she created her giraffe in a tactile format so her blind mother, Amanda, would be able to experience this art for herself. In the WUCF Video, Kameron, who is also a musician, explains how her “Moma” giraffe appealed to her Mother through touch. In turn, Amanda shared her positive response to touching and experiencing the sculptures.
“WUCF Artisodes” are a weekly arts and culture feature. Each episode airs on Thursday at 8:00 PM. A local artist or initiative is featured as well at stories from across the nation. “Sight Unseen: Touchable Sculpture” at the Polasek Museum aired on Thursday, February 18th at 8:00 PM and can now be viewed on You Tube.
“Touchable Sculpture” Exhibit at the Polasek continues through April 17, 2016. Background information on The Polasek Exhibit:
“Sight Unseen: Touchable Sculpture” Tuesday, December 7, 2015 – Sunday, April 17, 2016 at The Albin Polasek Museum & Sculpture Gardens in Winter Park Florida.
DO TOUCH the ART. The Albin Polasek Museum & Sculpture Gardens presents its new exhibition, “Sight Unseen: Touchable Sculpture,” running December 8, 2015 – April 17, 2016.
The museum encourages visitors to touch the art and experience the exhibit through its innovative sensory station—complete with blindfolds, a tactical way-finding system, and braille labels. Designed with the assistance of the VSA of Florida: The State Organization on Arts and Disability, the exhibit makes art universally accessible.
“Sight Unseen” presents 40 of the most innovative and exciting modern sculptors in an exhibit that demands a heightened sensory awareness. With an exhibit this immersive, visitors will forget what they know about museums and come to their senses.
Check out some of the fascinating sculptures on FaceBook:
Here is a detail of my wall entry “City of Orlando:”
“Con Edison Concert” is an interactive sculpture which I created just for this exhibition. Here it is in the Museum setting:
Con Edison Concert
A paper casting of a partial Con Edison Manhole Cover had been in my studios for several decades just waiting for its entry into the Art World. It would be called: “Con Edison Concert,” based on city street noises. The Polasek Museum’s call for Touchable Sculpture motivated me to develop the work.
“Con Edison Concert” (top)
As a former Elementary School Teacher and later a Title One Tutor, I knew the appeal of hands on experiences to “Kids of all Ages.” The New York Metropolitan Area abounds in Con Ed Covers, an immediate symbol of omnipresent electricity. The focus of “Con Edison Concert” became the Appreciation of Electricity through the fun experience of touching the buttons, hearing, and feeling the various components incorporated along the sides. These include: a musical doorbell, an LED light, switches, an outlet and three play back recordings of electricity trivia. It was a real challenge to reinforce the elements set into a foam base, so they could not be pushed through the back.
“Who is Known for Lighting Up Our World?”
Side One has an LED light to press on and off. Push the button on the right for my question… “Who is known for lighting up our world?”
Side Two pictured in the museum setting above, has a silent switch to press. Nothing happens, but the switch is a reminder of the luxury of turning on electric power. Press the button on the right for a Terry Roderick’s quote related to Con Edison’s 95,000 miles of underground cables.
On the side with the noisy switch and outlet: Press the button to hear four seconds of a furious hurricane. Al Mastrangelo says: “Hurricanes Cause Power Outages!”
One has to have the patience of a saint to be married to a “Manhole Artist!” So while I worked on this project, I called my husband: “Saint Alfred.” He helped me select and order the various side components. Al’s brilliant suggestion was to incorporate my antique stone texture instead of a stucco finish.
Blog Viewers, if you are able to attend this fascinating exhibition, I hope you have as much fun experiencing “Con Edison Concert” as I did in creating it. Please share your comments on this blog.
“Sight Unseen: Touchable Sculpture”
Tues., Dec. 7, 2015 – Sunday: April 17, 2016
Albin Polasek Museum & Sculpture Gardens:
633 Osceola Avenue,
Winter Park FL 32789
Open Tuesday through Saturday 10:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.
Two of Bobbi Mastrangelo’s Sculpture Relief Works: “Vestige” (shown below) and “When” (The People Care) are on exhibit at this prestigious Florida Museum.
Coral Springs Museum of Art ( Theater Lobby Gallery)
The NATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF WOMEN ARTISTS, INC. FLORIDA CHAPTER (N.A.W.A.) is presenting a multi-media exhibition entitled “Invoking The Muse,” which will be hosted by the Coral Springs Museum of Art located at 2855 Coral Springs Drive, Coral Springs, Florida. The Juried art will be on view in the Lower Lobby Gallery from Tuesday, December 1 through Monday, December 28, 2015.
Vestige SC (Charleston) sculpture relief 27″ x 17″ x 2″
Museum Hours: 10 AM – 5 PM
MONDAY – SATURDAY (CLOSED SUNDAY)
Coral Springs Museum of Art 2855 Coral Springs Drive Coral Springs, Florida 33065
The Daughters of the American Revolution is an organization with a deeply rich history while also being truly relevant in today’s world. More than 930,000 women have joined the organization since it was founded close to 125 years ago. They became members to honor their heritage as well as make a difference in their communities across the country and the world.
A while ago, Ellen Gordon, Registrar for The Lake Wales Chapter of the DAR, nominated me for the Women in the Arts Recognition Award. This National Award is designed to recognize worthy women in the community for outstanding achievement in the non-performance arts.
The criteria was: innovative design work, featured exhibitions, publications and technique development. The recipient is expected to have contributed to her artistic field in an outstanding manner beyond mastery of technique. Ellen was especially interested in the art that called for environmental action: “When the People Care.”
The packet we sent off to the National Chairman included Ellen’s Nomination, My Artist Statement, ten large photos of art works, Letters of Recommendation from Artsy Shark Founder and WUCF TV Video Content Producer.
Ellen Gordon, Bobbi Mastrangelo and Earlene Head
On October 5, 2015, at The Lake Wales Chapter Meeting, I was presented with the Award. My presentation included two videos of TV Interviews about my “Manhole Art.”
The audience chuckled when they heard the name of the grass roots environmental Adopt-A-Spot Group I founded: CLEAN (Committee for Litter Elimination And Neatness).
They laughed out loud when they discovered that I was on the Moscow Website entitled: “Sewers of the World Unite!” The DAR Audience was very receptive and interactive.
I am very Honored to be a recipient of a National Art Award from The DAR, an organization which promotes historic preservation, education and patriotism.
The Member Artist Showcase by the Smithtown Township Arts Council features unique original art displayed in the lovely historic Mills Pond House. A former resident of St. James and then Port Jefferson, Bobbi has maintained her membership and participates annually in their members’ show.
“Florida Citrus 467-1” is a departure from her normal street scenes, but because she can’t visit the exhibition, she sent the “Flavor of Florida” instead. This mixed media relief artistically represents the vital elements for Florida’s Dominant Crop: Light, (for sun) water, soil, seeds and its most famous product: oranges.
Here are the step by step photos and story of its creation:
“The Arts Council of Martin County is excited to be hosting this fantastic celebration of All-Florida Art in the Court House Cultural Center. The works have been personally selected by our juror Josh Davis to create a show that reflects the finest in Florida Art,” noted Nancy K Turrell, executive director.
“Inside 52GA-R”
“Inside 52GA-R” is a bit of a departure from the rest of Mastrangelo’s sculpture relief pieces, because is presents a look at the underside of a manhole cover: an underground view. “Inside 52GA-R” was a prize winner at Orlando Museum of Art’s 1st Thursdays and exhibited with “The Best of The Best” at The Mayor’s Gallery at City Hall in Orlando Florida in 2014.
Bobbi is pleased to have this special piece selected for this prestigious exhibit.
2015 All Florida Juried Art Exhibit
Wall Grouping: Bobbi’s Art, Thalia Sizemore, Below: Mia Lindberg and Gary Gresko.
Joshua Hunter Davis, juror for the show, is an artist from South Florida whose subjects range from industrial sites to machine animal hybrids. Though Davis did not grow up in Detroit or Newark or any other major city of industry, his preference for all things industrial and mechanical was the inevitable result of growing up in the family business of water and sewer plant operation.
Mastrangelo’s Art of sewer covers and water covers relates to the Davis family business. Joshua Davis Hunter currently works as an adjunct instructor in South Florida and exhibits work throughout the area.
Art Reception: Fri. Sept. 25, 2015 from 5:30 – 7:00 p.m.,
The exhibition runs from September 25 – November 14.
Gallery hours are 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., Tuesday – Friday,
Since 2001, I have been donating art for Attleboro Art Museum’s annual fundraiser. Proceeds from the auction fund colorful and innovative arts programs for all levels of artists and art students. The on-line bidding provides a chance to purchase art at a reasonable price and support the arts too.
Officially, the stars and stripes can be any color or media, but Bobbi Mastrangelo decided to enter three of her patriotic pieces.
“American Pride” Sculpture relief: 9” x 15” x 1.5″
For more information or prices of the art works, e-mail the artist: [email protected] Your comments on the blog are very welcome. Please let Bobbi know if you were able to see this exhibit. Happy Summer!
I AM Pocket Sized
Curated by Rhonda Cooper
June 28 – September 13, 2015
Reception: Sunday, June 28, from 1 – 4 PM
I AM Pocket Sized invited artists from around the world to create art that fits in the palm of your hand!
I AM Pocket Sized exhibits a large survey of paintings, drawings, collages, sculpture, and more.
In today’s art world, where the notion that bigger is better seems to be too-often taken for granted, it’s refreshing to see that contemporary artists are continuing to produce work on a small scale as well. While small-scale paintings and sculptures, or maquettes, have often been produced as preliminary studies for larger-scale works, the artists represented in the IAM’s current exhibition demonstrate that small works hold a valid and unique place of their own in an art world often dominated by more sizable creations.
“The Essential Element” is one of Bobbi Mastrangelo’s two rotating miniatures being exhibited at the Islip Art Museum. Here is the top view based on an actual manhole sized water cover. The side and back views of Bobbi’s miniatures can be accessed here: http://www.bobbimastrangelo.com/sallery/Mini-Rotating-Sculptures.php
“The Essential Element” at Islip Art Museum
“I AM POCKET SIZED” June 28th – Sept 13, 2015
ISLIP ART MUSEUM
Reception: June 28 from 1 – 4 PM.
I AM Pocket Sized features Detlef E. Aderhold, Max Victor Alper, Lisa Argentieri, Susan Barrasi, Linda Beckerman, Ennid Berger, Phyllis Bilick, Katey Carey, Darlene Charneco, Ye-seul Choi, John Cino, Denise Collado, John Crimmins, Rosetta DeBerardinis, JoAnne Dumas, Shana Einhorn, Cara Enteles, Ann Fox, Reu’ven Gayle, Tony Geiger, Gabriella Grama, Michael Griske, Barbara Grossman-Karyo, Sylvia Harnick, Jeanne Heifetz, Neddi Heller, Katherine Hiscox, Paul Hitchen, Kyle Horne, Takafumi Ide, Debbie Johnston, Heidi Jukes, Drew Kane, Deborah Katz, Heejung Kim, Bernard Klevickas, Kathy Klompas, Jeni Kobylarz, Elizabeth Kolligs, Rachelle Krieger, Deanna Lee, Cynthia Loewen, Jennifer Maggio, Bobbi Mastrangelo, Claudia Mirzaali, Lauren Monte, Pat Moran, Alexandra Muzek, Stephanie Navon-Jacobson, Fred Neudoerffer, Vanessa Nguyen, Keith Perkins, Ramona Perrin, Mario Politi, Richard Quinn, Evelyn Ramos, Andreas Rentsch, Alan M. Richards, Deena des Rioux, Helen Rousakis, Sue Runkowski, Lorena Salcedo-Watson, Laurie Samara-Schlageter, Jane Schiowitz, Sungsook Setton, Alisa Shea, Sally Shore, Ruby Silvious, Megan Sirianni-Brand, Elena Soterakis, Ted Stamatelos, Stelios Stylianou, Chanika Svetvilas, Dianne Talan, Christine Verga-Maday, Gina Vigliarolo, Mary Waka, Caroline Waloski, Sharon Way-Howard, Patricia Yantz, Nancy Yoshii, Courtney Young, Helen Zajkowski, JoAnne Zambito, and Anthony Zummo
This year’s Annual Open Call exhibition has been curated by Rhonda Cooper, who was the Gallery Director of Stony Brook University’s Paul W. Zuccaire Gallery (formerly University Art Gallery) from 1983 to 2013. In addition to her curatorial work, Cooper has taught art management and Asian art history courses at Stony Brook University, the Art Institute of Boston, and the University of Bridgeport. She is also a co-author of the book, Masterpieces of Chinese Art.
Bobbi Mastrangelo and “When the People Care” (mixed media)
Q & A with a “Grate” Artist
Mary Joye interviewed Bobbi Mastrangelo about her unusual art theme of manhole covers and water covers. The author had recently photographed the decorative water meter covers in New Orleans Louisiana, and was delighted to discover another soul who found beauty in manhole covers.
The complete article appeared on page 39 of the May issue of Today and Tonight Magazine published in Polk County. Several photos of Bobbi’s art and her manhole cover poem “Ode to Karl Shapiro” are included in the publication. Scroll to page 39 of the May edition to read the article: http://issuu.com/todayandtonight/docs/today___tonight_magazine_0515/39?e=7118698/12712714
Today & Tonight Magazine, edited by Chris Douglas is recognized as Polk County’s premier dining , entertainment and Lifestyle Resource. http://www.todayandtonight.com/
“The City Beautiful is the third of my Florida Post Cards Trio for NPCW. Orlando, The Theme Park Capital of the World, and one of our most visited cities, appealed to me for its dedication to the Arts.
Orlando’s impressive City Hall houses two public art galleries. The Terrace Gallery features national and international artists and collections, as well as Florida artists of renown. The Mayor’s 3rd Floor Gallery is specifically dedicated to Central Florida artists. Supported by private philanthropy, See Art Orlando is the permanent installation of nine contemporary public art sculptures in Downtown Orlando.
During the summer of 2014, my art was displayed on the third floor Mayor’s Gallery at City Hall with all the winners of Orlando Museum of Art’s First Thursday’s Exhibition: “Best of the Best” http://bobbimastrangelo.com/MyNews/?p=4377
The beautiful circular gallery space was impressive. The colorful City Logo posted next to the Mayor” Door inspired me. The actual city logo-manhole cover out on the streets is not colored, just plain rust-toned. So, influenced by “The City Beautiful” and the colorful Japanese Manhole Covers, I created my first manhole cover sculpture in color and posted the image on my 2015 NPCW Post Card.
I exchange post cards with over 130 post card pen pals and save their creations in binder notebooks. Demaris Swint has posted the 2015 post cards for National Post Card Week on this site: http://www.nationalpostcardweek.com/2015.php
Bobbi Mastrangelo’s Art and Community Involvement focus on Caring for Our Planet Earth. This is the First Blog in a three part series on EARTH CARE.
“When the People Care”
Why would anyone want to incorporate litter into an art work? When Bobbi Mastrangelo began her manhole cover art theme, she used to sweep the litter off the manhole covers before taking photos or doing rubbings. Well, the truth is that adding litter called attention to the treatment of our streets and our Planet Earth. So she composed this poem and embossed it into her hand made paper.
By now, you probably know that Mastrangelo’s art theme is based on Manhole Covers, Water Covers, Grates and Drains. Not only does her art document the visual history of our streets, but it carries an Environmental Message as well: To Conserve and Protect Our Precious Resources.
She created a walk around assemblage: “People Start Pollution: People Can Stop It.”
People Start Pollution
Part One:Cigarette Butt Litter. Cigarette butts are being dumped from a car ash tray.
Cigarette butts are actually cellulose acetate, which is man made and doesn’t biodegrade. Light weight butts easily get caught up in runoff from storms. Tons of butts land in open spaces posing a health problem for birds and other wildlife for up to 12 years. The cumulative effect of these toxic chemicals can pollute water.
Medical Waste Pollution
Part Two: Simulated Medical Waste.
Mastrangelo used port wine and catsup to simulate the dried blood, but the waste looked so convincing that a mother pulled her son away from the assemblage, scolding:. “Don’t touch that! You will get a disease!”
Part Three: People Can Stop Pollution.They will clean littered areas or better yet provide waste cans, paint and plant to improve environments. The Keep America Beautiful Symbol is displayed on the waste can. Water Valve Covers are incorporated in the bases of One and Three.
Pollution Solution
“Water?”
Mastrangelo also expressed concerns with conserving water in her sculptures and works on hand made papers. Ten of her “Water Cover” works are featured on the website of WEAD (Women Environmental Artists Directory). Her “Grate works of Art” have been exhibited in many important venues from Water Authorities in NY State to Florida, The New York Hall of Science, “Listen to the Earth” at Hamilton College and “Best of the Best” at the Mayor’s Gallery City Hall, Orlando in 2014.
Bobbi Mastrangelo has garnered many prizes for her art, but she is especially proud to have been one of the eleven finalists for the first-ever Environmental Art Prize sponsored by the NRDC National Resources Defense Council for the 40th Anniversary Celebration of Earth Day. http://www.nrdc.org/nabicontest/
I also enjoyed Kim Christiansen’s Rubbings. He enhances his rubbings with dynamic, colorful additions. You can view his works at 
