More than 150 students at Pell Elementary School in Newport have created vibrant works of art depicting the Newport Pell Bridge in recognition of its 50th anniversary. The artwork was produced by students in kindergarten through third grade, each of whom drew their own colorful interpretations of the bridge. Pieces include vibrant sunsets, sunny skies and boats sailing under the bridge span.
“Art is alive and well at Pell and our students were excited to portray one of the most iconic institutions of our community,” says Diane Sheehan, Fine Arts Supervisor and Art Educator at Pell Elementary.
Exhibits of the artwork are on display during regular hours in the main lobby of the Newport Post Office and inside the atrium of Newport Hospital.
“We’re delighted to have our local students participate in the festivities surrounding the Newport Pell Bridge’s 50th Anniversary Celebration,” said Evan Smith, President and CEO of Discover Newport and chairman of the 50th Anniversary Celebration. “Our youth are the future stewards of the Newport Pell Bridge and will steer its prosperity into the next 50 years.”
Smith invites all Rhode Islanders to celebrate this momentous milestone on June 28th at Fort Adams State Park at a family-friendly celebration from 6 p.m. to 10 p.m. with food trucks, music by the appropriately named Take It to the Bridge band and fireworks (rain date: June 30th). Says Smith, “Come out and share your favorite bridge stories and memories while making new ones with your family, friends and neighbors.”
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