WINTER/SPRING 2019
THE FUTURE OF MUSEUMS
Digital technology shaping the art experience Upcoming programs and member perks!
J a n u a r y • Fe br u a r y • M a r ch • A pr i l
1.19 WELCOME The “future of museums” is an ongoing topic in the museum field. Shifts in the world around us and advances in technology inevitably affect our interests, the ways in which we interact with one another, and how we decide to spend our time. In turn, museums have seen shifts in the ways in which guests engage with art and at museums. This issue of Newscasting touches on some of the ways GFS is addressing the shifts in the art world, museum field, and the world around us. As Grounds For Sculpture is a “different kind of museum” with countless ways to interact with art and the environment, GFS staff is constantly researching, measuring, listening and observing to adapt and remain relevant, exciting, and a sustainable organization for future generations to enjoy. This expansive, ever-developing topic continues— thanks for your support and for being part of the conversation! Claire Cossaboon Manager of Membership ccossaboon@groundsforsculpture.org
CONNECT WITH GFS
FROM GFS’S NEWLY ADOPTED STRATEGIC PLAN WE BELIEVE … • visiting an oasis of beauty, where art and imaginatively landscaped gardens awaken the senses, enhances well-being, and stimulates reflection.
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• the experience and discovery of art in nature is transformative. • the visual arts should reflect the complex and dynamic world around us, inspiring essential conversations and understandings.
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• in artists’ abilities to envision anew, challenge perceptions and inspire; we support them in taking ambitious next steps in their creative process. • in a democratizing approach to art in which novice and connoisseur are equally at home. • in a culture of inclusion that reaches out and warmly welcomes in.
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• that curiosity, discovery, and playfulness have and will continue to guide our work. • in a culture of imagination, innovation and forward thinking. • that as a museum we have the responsibility to serve as a platform, convener and bridge within and among our communities.
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• In nurturing imagination by connecting people with art, artists, and the creative process. COVER AND ABOVE: View of Michael Rees: Synthetic Cells exhibition in the West Gallery, dimensions variable, all work on loan from the Artist, photo by David Howarth of dmhphotographer.com
member TALK BACK
Michael Rees: Synthetic Cells exhibition in the West Gallery, dimensions variable, all work on loan from the Artist
MEMBER TALK BACK
Joyce J. Scott, Araminta with Rifle and Vèvè, 2017, mixed media, dimensions variable, Collection of the Artist and Goya Contemporary Gallery, Baltimore
What does your Grounds For Sculpture of the future look like? What does GFS need to do to still be here in 20 years? 50 years? Keep bringing in different and varying artists and exhibits. Keep the grounds. It’s our peaceful place. – Alan & Rita Promote that is it NOT “boring art” – Carla Add works by culturally, racially, ethnically, economically diverse men & women artists… Develop public understanding that stuff is going on indoors here, regardless of poor weather. – Jared Programs to encourage families and grandparents to bring & involve children. – Kathleen My Grounds For Sculpture of the future will keep me on my toes and with a sharp mind… rotating out with the present and in with the new to keep people returning… – Brenda More kid/family interactive sculptural exhibits that reflect latest technology. – Myrna Engage the school and college communities. – Nancy
Walter Dusenbery, Damascus Gate, 2002, travertine, 240 x 176 x 51 inches, Grounds For Sculpture, Gift of The Seward Johnson Atelier
Grounds For Sculpture of the future will feature holographic 3D sculpture/art; interactive sculpture. – John Encourage young people to be involved in volunteer activities. – Donna Keep creating new artwork. – Martha Improve digital interface – Donna Maintain the quiet, reflective space that feeds a person’s soul. – John
All photos by dmhphotographer.com
Michael Rees (on left) with his work Synth Cell 003 China Wall, Pig, 2017-18, mixed media, 94.5 x 94.5 x 94.5 inches, Collection of the Artist
Keep ahead of trends; Keep showing work by new and upcoming artists; Stay creative and joyful! – Lonna
Michelle Lai and Masayuki Koorida with his work, Wave, 2015, granite, 60.24 x 124.80 x 79.53 inches, Collection of the Artist
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Site and Para(Site) Faith McClellan, Director of Collections & Exhibitions In the 1930s Georgia O’Keeffe wrote, “…to see takes time, like to have a friend takes time.”Thinking about how art has changed from that day to now, and how it may continue to evolve, there is a universal truth that O’Keeffe was pointing out that remains unchanged despite the evolution of ways to express those ideas. Beyond all the other joys and thought-provoking moments art can produce in us, studying art, making art, and developing that ability to observe, internalize, and articulate thoughts about what we see and why we like it prepares us for being humans on this planet, interacting with other humans. Digital technology as a vehicle to produce and experience art may create new opportunities for artists and viewers alike, but at the heart of those experiences, there should still be moments for better understanding of ourselves and the world around us. Seward Johnson was ahead of the curve when he founded Grounds For Sculpture as a place where interaction with art was welcomed, taking the experience beyond the boundaries of typical museum practice and allowing visitors to touch and discover a visceral moment. That element of interactivity continues John Craig Freeman, Epigenetics: Lost Way
in unique ways in some of our current exhibitions, such as Michael Rees: Synthetic Cells, and in upcoming projects with artist Tallur, L.N. where direct interaction between the artist’s work and the visitor is not just encouraged, but more importantly, the visitor’s participation completes the intention of the work itself. Focusing on Synthetic Cells and its companion exhibition living within that project, Site and Para(Site), seven artists created augmented experiences layered on top of the physical objects in the gallery. The camaraderie and pioneering spirit among this group of tech-savvy artists is not unlike the early days of the Johnson Atelier, where artists worked together to create and to learn new skills from each other. The artists who created these augments are at the forefront of digital art making, writing code the way other artists sketch on paper, piecing together elements produced in different platforms, and when reaching the limits of what exists, devel-
Tamiko Thiel, still from Gardens of the Anthropocene, animation, and Michael Rees, Synth Cell 011 Hatch, Turtle, air-inflated PVC vinyl, ink jet print on vinyl, steel, 110 x 110 x 110 inches, Collection of the Artist
oping new technology as needed, forging a path for artists of the future to follow. In the works they created for this exhibition, the viewer can literally step into the virtual landscape created by these artists and become part of the experience. As we contemplate how art will evolve, these artists who are not just working with new techniques but also incorporating new ways to shape the viewer’s experience offer an exciting glimpse into the future. Visitor Adrienne Romano-Nezsmelyi, Director of Interpretation and Innovation for the James A. Michener Art Museum, interacting with Michael Rees’ butterfly augment.
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e d ucat i on + ENGAGEMENT Heather Brady, Director of Education & Engagement
James Carl, oof, 2018, cardboard, dimensions variable, Courtesy of the Artist and Trépanier Baer Gallery, Calgary, Canada
ACCORDING TO MERRIAM-WEBSTER’S DICTIONARY, “ENGAGE” IS A VERB THAT MEANS TO: 1. occupy, attract, or involve (someone’s interest or attention). 2. participate or become involved in.
photos: dhmphotographer.com
When talking about educational engagement broadly, conversations in the museum field right now are as much about the first part of this definition as the second; they are about the who as much as the what and how of what we do. Who are we attracting, involving, or including in our work? Who might we be leaving out? What does it, or can it, mean to truly participate or become involved? And what if we let our audiences decide? We talk about doing our best to envision new ways for people of every age, background, and ability to connect with and learn from one another, because we know that museums, at their core, are places for people. All people. And that when we create opportunities for people to make our exhibitions, programs, and ultimately, the museum itself their own through participatory experiences, it becomes that much more dynamic and alive. It becomes stronger. And its future becomes only brighter. At GFS, this sort of engagement can come in many different shapes and forms. Embedded in our DNA are forward-thinking commitments: This was, and is, a place meant for everyone. It’s also a place that recognized early that there was more than one way to experience and participate in the arts.
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Michael Rees, Synth Cell 011 Hatch, Turtle, 2017-2018, mixed media, 110 x 110 x 110 inches, Collection of the Artist
There is still lots of work to be done in our education and engagement department especially as we think about the ways in which the world around us continues to evolve. As we look ahead, we are excited to continue expanding upon what it means to engage at Grounds For Sculpture. We are excited to be doing what we do in such a forward-thinking place. And most importantly, we are excited to continue doing it for and with all of you.
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SAVE THE DATE member events calendar FOR MORE INFORMATION OR TO REGISTER FOR THESE EVENTS, VISIT GROUNDSFORSCULPTURE.ORG OR CALL (609) 586-0616.
FROST AND FLAMES Saturday, January 12; 11am-4pm
Photo by Zach Teris for dmphotographer.com.
Get up close and watch as master carvers turn huge blocks of ice into art using power saws, chisels, and grit. These talented artists will amaze you with what and how they create during this one-of-a-kind event. Throughout the day, enjoy additional experiences facilitated by artists from The Seward Johnson Atelier, and demos by the knowledgeable staff at REI and The North Face. As the sun goes down, “cozy up by the fire” at our outdoor warming lounge or catch a unique pop-up performance by one of the early evening’s strolling flame dancers. Free for members!
FILM FOR THOUGHT Select Sundays at 2pm January 27 – A Lego Brickumentary February 24 – Samsara March 17 – Half the Picture This popular winter program features specially curated selections inspired by themes explored in our current exhibitions. The three-installment series of documentary films offers a thought-provoking look at life’s spiritual and natural interconnectedness, challenges to the accepted roles of women in male-dominated fields, and the infinite and unexpected creative possibilities in simple objects. We encourage attendees to arrive early to explore the exhibitions during a period of quiet viewing. Following the film, share your thoughts during an informal discussion led by experienced guest moderators.
ARTISTS IN ACTION Saturday, March 30; 11am-4pm
MARCH IS MEMBERS MONTH IN THE MUSEUM SHOP!
MEMBER MORNINGS
Photo by Zach Teris for dmphotographer.com.
This March, Members enjoy 15% off all eligible items at the Museum Shop, including online purchases. Visit the store in person or shop online at https://shopgfs.org.
GFS is home to many outstanding artists. Kick off the spring season as these artists open their studios to you. Watch them work. View their latest efforts. Ask questions. Get inspired! Rain or shine. Free for members!
Members enjoy early access to the park at 8am on the final Sunday of the month, April – November. Save the date for the next Member Morning: Sunday, April 28
SPRING/SUMMER 2019 MEMBER PREVIEW DAY Saturday, May 4; 10am-2pm Enjoy a members-only opportunity to go behind-the-scenes of the artistic season! Members enjoy special programs, such as art tours and talks, performances, art-making, and more. Members may use Guest Passes to bring additional guests. Gates open at 9:30am. Present your current membership card or join upon entry. Program schedule available online in April. Fabrication in process on Dina Wind, Harp of David #1, 1985/2018, 26 x 24 x 22 feet, Grounds For Sculpture, Gift of the Dina Wind Art Foundation
ART SALON WITH ADAM GAREY Thursday, March 21; 11am-2pm GFS is home to many outstanding artists. Kick off the spring season as these artists open their studios to you. Watch them work. View their latest efforts. Ask questions. Get inspired! Rain or shine. Free for members!
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GROUNDS FOR SCULPTURE PLANT SALE Saturday, May 4 from 10am-5pm * Exclusive access for members from 10am-2pm during Member Preview Day!
member REFLECTIONS
GFS members at Art Gallery of Ontario
Four Seasons Performing Arts Center, photo by Thomas Keane
From October 12-16, GFS Members traveled abroad for an autumn escape to Toronto and discovered why the city is regarded as a must-see destination for art lovers. Tour highlights included the expansive collections of Art Gallery of
Top: Nicholas Bryson, Stefania, 2017-18, Ipe, South American walnut, Collection of the Artist, photo by David Howarth for dmhphotographer.com
Ontario, going behind-the-scenes at the glimmering Four Seasons Performing Arts Center, dinner at the top of the CN Tower, an exclusive visit to the studio of GFS exhibiting artist James Carl, and a private viewing of the impressive David Mirvish art collection.
Bottom: Spriha Gupta, Allure, 2017, acrylic on canvas, Collection of the Artist, photo courtesy of Grounds For Sculpture
The ninth annual Members’ Musings exhibition featuring artwork exclusively by GFS members was on view in the Education Gallery from October 26-December 9. The exhibition showcased the diverse talents of our membership through 17 artistic creations in a range of media. This year’s juror was Adrienne Neszmelyi-Romano, Director of Interpretation and Innovation at the James A. Michener Art Museum in Doylestown, PA. NeszmelyiRomano explained her selection process: It was a both rewarding and challenging task to judge the many talented artists who applied in this year’s Members’ Musings exhibition. My starting point for evaluating work is the displayed level of technical proficiency and craftsmanship of the artist. I then look to presentation and communication, as well as creativity and originality regarding the subject and/or the medium. For this exhibition, the submissions presented were in a variety of media, and I thus tried to select the best from each in order to represent the breadth of submitted media.
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GFS Horticulturist Janis Napoli with Longwood Horticulturist Michael Strengari
In early December, GFS members celebrated the holiday season with a daytrip exploring Longwood Gardens and its winter light display. Longwood Gardens Horticulturist (and former GFS Horticulturist!), Michael Strengari gave a special talk about his role at Longwood Gardens, fun facts about the botanical garden, and how the light display was created. GFS Horticulture staff and members later explored the indoor conservatory gardens and outdoor wonderland, illuminated by a half-million lights.
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DEVELOPMENT In October, Grounds For Sculpture was awarded $50,000 from the New Jersey Cultural Trust. This grant will, in part, provide the vital support needed to repair our Main Loop pathway around the grounds. The Main Loop has become increasingly worn due to extremes in weather and increased foot traffic. The state of the Main Loop makes it difficult for our guests to navigate through much of our outdoor sculpture and botanical collections, especially our guests with mobility challenges. We are grateful to the New Jersey Cultural Trust for helping us continue our mission to welcome, surprise and engage all visitors.
Thanks to the generosity of so many like you, GFS continues to create unforgettable experiences to enrich, surprise, and inspire our members and donors, visitors, and their families. Please consider supporting this year’s Annual Fund. Your tax-deductible gift to GFS’s Annual Fund helps us to: • Develop an exciting schedule of exhibitions that open new avenues of artistic medium, process, and content. • Maintain the beauty and tranquility of the Grounds and care for our world-class horticulture. • Preserve, restore and expand our collection of contemporary sculpture. • Serve as an educational resource for visitors of all ages and abilities. • Use the experience of art and nature to improve individual health and wellness. • Introduce the joys of making and appreciating art to children. • Provide FREE admission all year to children ages 5 and younger. Your gift to the Annual Fund, above and beyond your membership dues, helps sustain these important community assets you have come to appreciate. Please add to your support with a gift to our Annual Fund. You can donate online at www. GFStomorrow.org, by mail (Grounds For Sculpture, 80 Sculptors Way, Hamilton, NJ 08619), or call 609-249-0233. Thank you for your generosity!
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THE GFS LEGACY SOCIETY
TRIBUTE PROGRAM AT GFS
Join the GFS Legacy Society and help support Grounds For Sculpture through planned giving. Through your bequest or other planned gifts, you can ensure that Grounds For Sculpture will continue to fulfill its mission of combining art and beckoning spaces to welcome, surprise and engage all visitors in the artist’s act of invention. For more information please contact the Development Office at 609-249-0233 or at 609-249-0244.
A Tribute Gift to GFS can honor special individuals or celebrate events such as births, weddings or anniversaries. Your donation supports the exhibitions and educational programs of this incredible arts organization while making a lasting tribute to a unique person or event. Remember, you can make a gift “In Memory” or “In Honor” of someone special. Every gift, large or small, counts and takes us one step closer to a secure future for the entire GFS community. For more information and tax deductibility, please call 609-249-0233 or visit groundsforsculpture.org/Get-Involved/ Memorials.
CORPORATE VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES ABOUND AT GFS As a perk of Business membership, all GFS Business Members are eligible to participate in team-building volunteer experiences at Grounds. Pictured, a group from NJ High Hotels, SpringHill Suites by Marriott Ewing, NJ, SpringHill Suites by Marriott Mount Laurel, and NJ Courtyard by Marriott Ewing joined with GFS Horticulturist Janis Napoli for some much needed bamboo trimming out on the grounds. GFS has year-round volunteer opportunities for your business or corporate group. For more information visit http://www.groundsforsculpture.org/Support/Corporate-Volunteer-Opportunities or call Janis Martin-Hughes at 609-249-0248 for details.
MEET OUR NEWEST BUSINESS MEMBER: Callaway Henderson Sotheby’s International Realty | Susan A. Cook, Sales Associate, ABR Business Member Spotlight by Cindy Srnka, Corporate Engagement Associate Situated in Princeton’s historic town center across from the University, the Callaway Henderson Sotheby’s International Realty Princeton office is the hub of central New Jersey’s premier real estate firm. Combining the rich heritage and profound experience of two highly respected family companies, their deeply rooted local expertise and involvement in the communities served uniquely compliment the powerful global network of Sotheby’s International Realty. Centrally located to New York City and Philadelphia, with all the benefits of proximity to these major metropolitan cities, the local towns served are destinations unto themselves, culturally vibrant and rich with recreational and lifestyle amenities. Susan A. Cook, Sales Associate, ABR at the Princeton office, was recently re-introduced to GFS while working with one of China’s foremost contemporary artists visiting the Princeton area in search of a location for a possible U.S. studio. To provide her client a better understanding of the richness and depth of the art and cultural community in the area, Susan arranged a special visit to bring her client to GFS, which included a tour and lunch with Executive Director, Gary Garrido Schneider and Chief Curator, Tom Moran. This visit led Susan to look deeper into forming both a personal and business alliance with GFS. “It seemed to be the perfect opportunity to blend my love of photography and art with the community I live in and my profession as a real estate professional,” says Susan. Susan was excited to learn of the business membership program as it would provide many opportunities to introduce clients (and their families) who are new to the area to this wonderful resource for outings and enrichment through the many programs offered year-round. Susan states, “My partnership with GFS is new and evolving but I predict that it will become more and more important as it will allow me to connect with like-minded professionals and interact with a whole new audience of prospective clients for whom I hopefully can be a resource as well.”
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Originally from Cape Town, South Africa, Susan moved to the United States in 1983. She has lived and worked in and around the Princeton area for almost 30 years. Before becoming a licensed realtor almost twenty years ago, Susan worked as a freelance photographer and advertising executive in the Princeton area. Her success in real estate has been recognized with past NJAR Circle of Excellence awards and membership of the Mercer County Top Producers, she was awarded the ABR® designation which is a benchmark of excellence in real estate buyer representation.
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meet t he STAFF George Chevalier, Manager of Marketing, joined GFS in August 2018. His most recent position was Product Manager at Princeton Tec, where he had also previously served as Marketing Manager. Prior to his employment at Princeton Tec, he worked at TerraCycle in Trenton, NJ as Senior Publicist, with a brief time in London as acting European Manager of TerraCycle’s first international operation. His resume also includes experience at Public Relations and Strategic Communications firms. George enjoys spending his free time outdoors through adventures in photography, cycling and backpacking.
OUR FRIENDLY GUEST SERVICES TEAM LOOKS FORWARD TO WELCOMING YOU AND YOUR GUESTS TO YOUR NEXT GFS VISIT!
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COMING THIS APRIL: INTRODUCING A NEW PERK FOR MEMBERS!
$2 OFF MEMBER GUEST TICKETS Member Guests receive $2 Off Regularly Priced Timed Admission Tickets. Valid for tickets purchased online only. Details at groundsforsculpture.org/Visit/ Buy-Tickets starting in April.
Our culinary partner, STARR Catering Group, rebranded effective October 1, 2018. Its new name is Constellation Culinary Group and its decision to rebrand was a thoughtful one based on extensive research and discovery, expiration of the licensing agreement with Starr Restaurants, and in celebration of their 10th Anniversary. Nothing will change in the way they do business with us or with others and they are committed to continuing providing best-in-class culinary innovation, warm hospitality and memorable events and dining experiences. We are confident as ever in their ability to deliver exceptional dining experiences to our members and guests, and are inspired by their philosophy and approach: “Constellations are made of connections. So are we. In 2008, we began our pursuit to make people happy through food with one well known restaurateur. But it takes much more than one person for us to accomplish lofty goals—it takes a team. Our dedicated people form strong connections both inside our organization and with our clients, and these connections define us. Together, we bring restaurant-quality outside of restaurants, serve everything from intimate weddings to corporate offices, and put as much care into your filet mignon as we do your ham sandwich. We’ve built a culinary group that does what restaurants always have: get people talking—and daydreaming—about food, long after their last bite. We collaborate with our clients to customize culinary experiences born from their vision, not ours, from the most elaborate and elegant meal to the final name card placed. Some would say it’s a new way of approaching food. For us, it’s the only way.” Learn more at www.constellationculinary.com.
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VISIT US IN THE MEMBER LOUNGE! January-February, Saturdays & Sundays 1-4pm March-December, Thursdays-Sundays, 1-4pm Located in a bright corner of the Welcome Center overlooking the gardens, the Member Lounge is an inviting space for members to take a break with a complimentary refreshment. Read the latest museum publications, pick up a Membership Orientation or a Member Discovery Tour, learn about upcoming programs and trips, or connect with a staff member.
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t ha nk YOU
GROUNDS FOR SCULPTURE ACKNOWLEDGES AND THANKS ITS CURRENT BUSINESS PARTNER MEMBERS:
2019 BUSINESS MEMBER APPRECIATION DAY
Saturday, March 23, 2019 • 10am-4pm Grounds For Sculpture values all of the fine businesses and organizations who are Business Members of GFS and are offering a special Free Admission Appreciation Day for all Business Members and their employees. Highlights of the day include:
• Free admission for all employees and a guest • Access to additional discounted tickets for friends and family • Free guided tours throughout the day • A 10% discount at Peacock and Van Gogh Cafes • A 10% discount for groups up to 8 people at Rat’s Restaurant with prior reservations
• A 10% discount at the GFS Museum Shop, excluding consignment items.
• Access to the Member Lounge in the Welcome Center • Learn about the history and creation of GFS with free videos in our Orientation Room. Tickets will be available online only. Tickets are not available by phone or at the admissions desk. Does not apply to previous ticket purchases. Please contact Cindy Srnka, Corporate Engagement Associate at csrnka@groundsforsculpture. org for more information.
Advanced Clinical Arthur J Gallagher Risk Management Bank of America Bloomberg Burlington Electrical Testing Company Inc. Callaway Henderson Sotheby’s International Realty Capital Health Community Investment Strategies, Inc. Courtyard by Marriott Ewing Custom Essence Inc. Deutsche Bank Event Navigators GFT Charity Inc. Green Building Solutions Greencrown Energy Hamilton Pet Meadow HeliacEnergia Inc. High Hotels Hopewell Valley Vineyards Inn at Glencairn Innophos Holdings Inc. Johnson & Johnson J. P. Morgan Private Bank J & J Maintenance Solutions, LLC. Kale’s Nursery Laurenti Charitable Trust Marriott Forrestal Mercadien MTF Biologics NRG Energy, Inc. Phillips McDade Primepoint Princetel Princeton Regional Chamber of Commerce Princeton Regional Convention & Visitors Bureau PSE&G Quaker Bridge Mall RAS Technology Consultants Roundview Capital RWJ Hamilton S&P Global Springhill Suites by Marriot Ewing TD Bank The Bank of Princeton Trident Plastics Tris Pharma V.J. Scozzari and Sons Whole Foods For more information on becoming a member of the GFS Business Partner Program, or to craft a Business Partner Program exclusively to fit your business needs, please contact Janis Martin-Hughes at (609) 249-0248, or jmhughes@groundsforsculpture.org.
groundsforsculpture.org | 80 Sculptors Way, Hamilton, NJ 08619