First Christian Church Creates Public Art and Conversation
In 2000, the members of First Christian Church of Glendora (FCCG) decided to act upon the belief that art feeds the soul. In response to a calling to use the arts to serve and build community, the members established the FCCG Art Academy.
Twenty-three years later, the Art Academy is thriving and growing each year. The FCCG Art Academy not only serves the children and adults living in Glendora but also surrounding communities.
As an outgrowth of the art happening inside the building, and as a way to share art and God’s grace with the community, the church commissioned a local artist to create a mural on the iconic bell tower. The FCCG Art Committee, with the mission to nurture the arts of the past, present and future, commissioned Mary Blandino, artist and Art Academy educator for the past 5 years, to create public art on the bell tower. It is funded by direct donations and a small portion of funds generated by the Art Academy program.
The artwork captures the essence of Genesis 9:14-15: “14 Whenever I bring clouds over the earth and the rainbow appears in the clouds, 15 I will remember my covenant between me and you.” The hope is that the rainbow colored clouds serve as a reminder of God’s covenant of protection and hope for all people. The bell tower of the 100 year-old building was the ideal location to launch this public art project as this corner has historically been a gathering place for the community, and the artwork will continue to be a place to gather the community in creativity.
“I am honored to use creativity as an avenue for conversation that connects us to each other. I believe in the power of art. Art is my sanctuary. I hope that this project will spark thought and encourage others to embrace all the colors. Express yourself vividly and unapologetically,” said artist Mary Blandino.
Click here to read a San Gabriel Tribune Article about our Mural
Thank you to all the community members who participated in The FCCG Public Art Mural!
See more images of the creation of The Public Art Mural at FCCG
Thank you to our generous donor Montage Paint! Thank you for making out mural eco-friendly with the donation of you amazing recycles paints!