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Mercer County Art Collection
Mercer County was the first county government in New Jersey to recognize the importance of being a patron of the arts. In 1971 the Mercer County Cultural and Heritage Commission, on the recommendation of Howard Goldstein, Chairman of the Commission, instituted a program that would give recognition to outstanding Mercer County artists. The Commission sponsored a juried exhibition of paintings, drawings, prints and sculpture to be held annually at what was then Trenton State College, now, The College of New Jersey. Additional recognition to the exhibiting artists was given through the presentation of purchase and merit awards. The jurors selected the merit awards and the Commission with the consultation of the jurors selected the purchase awards.
Howard Goldstein, a visual artist and former Director of the Art Department at Trenton State College, believed the best way to support and recognize artists was through the purchase of their works. He also believes that living with good original art would contribute to expanding the aesthetic sensitivities of the public, hence, the creation of the Mercer County Art Collection. The County government has generously continued the funding of the collection throughout the years.
The original exhibition has expanded and now The College of New Jersey hosts a student art exhibition and a photography exhibition that is open to all residents of the County. The Commission also co-sponsors two exhibitions at Mercer County Community College, like TCNJ one of the exhibitions is open to all residents of the County and the other is a student exhibit.
Not many Government buildings can say they have an art gallery on every floor, can they? The Mercer County Cultural & Heritage Commission decided long ago, that we should display our collection for the many visitors to enjoy while they are here. So when you're at the McDade Administration Building at 640 South Broad Street in Trenton, New Jersey, visiting for business or whatever reason, feel free to stroll the floors and enjoy what great art Mercer County has to offer.
Howard Goldstein, a visual artist and former Director of the Art Department at Trenton State College, believed the best way to support and recognize artists was through the purchase of their works. He also believes that living with good original art would contribute to expanding the aesthetic sensitivities of the public, hence, the creation of the Mercer County Art Collection. The County government has generously continued the funding of the collection throughout the years.
The original exhibition has expanded and now The College of New Jersey hosts a student art exhibition and a photography exhibition that is open to all residents of the County. The Commission also co-sponsors two exhibitions at Mercer County Community College, like TCNJ one of the exhibitions is open to all residents of the County and the other is a student exhibit.
Not many Government buildings can say they have an art gallery on every floor, can they? The Mercer County Cultural & Heritage Commission decided long ago, that we should display our collection for the many visitors to enjoy while they are here. So when you're at the McDade Administration Building at 640 South Broad Street in Trenton, New Jersey, visiting for business or whatever reason, feel free to stroll the floors and enjoy what great art Mercer County has to offer.
