The Foundation embarked on an ambitious project in 2023, to create and dedicate a Sun Dial honoring the Pellarin family for their historically important role in bringing the arts and artisans of terrazzo to the U.S. in the early 20th century. A giant 4 feet in diameter dial is to be installed in Union City, NJ’s Ellsworth Park, across the street from the Pellarin family’s long time residence. An official dedication is scheduled for Mid-May, 2024.
Besides the historical and commemorative aspects of the project, there is also an ongoing educational dimension to the Foundation’s program. That is, students in Union City Schools, the entire system, will be doing projects relating to various aspects of the terrazzo story. Additionally, some students in arts classes in Newton, Mass and a Girls Scout Troop in the St.Louis area will do similar work.
Both the Sun Dial and the school projects will heighten awareness of unique cultural and artistic contributions Italians have given to the world.
– Margaret Schmidt, Jersey Journal, April 1