Tampa, Fla. – Local artist Junior Polo is creating a new art piece for the University Area CDC’s Harvest Hope Park, and it looks like hope. Literally. And, the public is invited to participate by providing hope in the form of written letters expressing their hopes for the future.
The art piece consists of bright, colorful letters – constructed of treated wood and body filler – spelling out the word “HOPE.” The letter “O” will be heart-shaped, and filled with letters written by community members.
“These letters are to be what hope means to you, hopes you have for the future, or whatever words of wisdom you would like to share,” said Josephine Rocco, chief operating officer, adding a thank you to Florida Blue Foundation, which is funding the project.
Those wanting to participate are asked to email letters to JRocco@UACDC.org, with Junior Polo/HOPE Project in the subject line, or mail letters to: Junior Polo/University Area CDC HOPE Project 14013 N. 22nd St. Tampa, FL 33613.
Polo commented, “It is an honor for me to work on this project. This project is a sign of what the University Area CDC is for the university area. HOPE is what this organization means in this community.”
When the sign comes down at some point in the future, these messages will be shared. Until that time, letters will be in sealed envelopes, protected from the elements, and will remain unread. It is requested that submissions include a name and date on the letter for future reference.
The deadline for submitting letters is May 31. More information about Polo, whose other artwork can be enjoyed at University Area Community Center and at Harvest Hope Park, is available at https://www.artstampabay.com/artist/polo-junior/. Polo is also an art instructor in the University Area CDC’s Prodigy® Cultural Arts program.
Serving the community for more than 20 years, University Area CDC provides support for thousands of Tampa residents through holistic programming, adult education and resource assistance. Its primary mission is the redevelopment and sustainability of at-risk neighborhoods in the Uptown/University area, surrounding University of South Florida’s Tampa campus. More information about University Area CDC, a 501(c)(3) public/private partnership, is available by calling 813.558.5212 and by visiting uacdc.org.