On Wednesday, June 10, Hudson County Executive Craig Guy and the Hudson County Office of Cultural & Heritage Affairs Tourism Development officially unveiled Waves of Love, a new mural project led by artist Duda Penteado, alongside ten Hudson County student artists, Mayor James Solomon, and Katie Vanoncini, owner of General Pencil. The mural celebrates community connection, creativity, and the importance of public art as a force for unity and beautification throughout Hudson County.
“I am so proud to support projects like this that bring people together and create opportunities for our young people to express themselves through the arts,” said Hudson County Executive Craig Guy. “This mural reflects the creativity, diversity, and community spirit that makes Hudson County unique, while also demonstrating how government can work hand-in-hand with local artists, schools, and businesses to invest in our neighborhoods.“
“This mural represents what can happen when government, artists, educators, students, and local industry come together with a shared vision,” said Gina Hulings, Director of the Hudson County Office of Cultural & Heritage Tourism Development. “Waves of Love is not only a beautiful public artwork, but also a symbol of mentorship, collaboration, and community pride.”
“It warms by heart that so many people felt better and felt connected with love and art and community by this collaborative project!” said Katie Vanoncini, General Pencil owner.
The project was developed through a partnership between the Hudson County Office of Cultural & Heritage Affairs | Tourism Development, Hudson County schools, and the General Pencil Company – the oldest and largest pencil factory in the United States. The collaboration provided students with a unique opportunity to work directly with a professional muralist while engaging with one of America’s historic creative manufacturing institutions.
The County Executive and the Board of County Commissioners were recognized for their support of the beautification initiative and their continued investment in arts programming throughout the county. The Jersey City Office of Cultural Affairs were also recognized for sharing resources and helping strengthen the collaborative spirit of the project, as well as Katie Vanocini and the entire staff at General Pencil for their partnership and support.
Lead artists Duda Penteado worked closely with participating students throughout the mural process, encouraging artistic expression while emphasizing the role art can play in building stronger communities.