Coordinated by Danny Moyer, the Young Masters Wall (YMW) is a rotating installation at the Richard McAteer Memorial Bridge (“blue bridge”) along the Karl Stirner Arts Trail. At nearly 5 feet high and 80 feet long, the wall is located near the 13th Street entrance. Since 2012, groups of artists have created temporary paintings in the gold frames along the wall.
The artists are presented with a theme for inspiration with prompts from a YMW instructor, such as “What do you love about Easton?” or “Paint a message of hope.” Initially, the participants plan their ideas by sketching them on paper. The group later meets at the wall, with paints, brushes, and more provided. Often groups of 2-4 people will paint an image together due to the limited number of frames (12) and space. The art is displayed for walkers, runners, and visitors of all kinds to enjoy.
The Boys and Girls Club of Easton, Spring Garden Day Care, and Easton Area Community Center were the first groups of young artists to paint on the wall. Soon they were joined by the Cub Scouts, local high school students, Lafayette College’s Beginning Painting classes, homeschooled students, and residents of Easton’s Safe Harbor Shelter as “young” became redefined. The Karl Stirner Trail values the participation of these groups and individuals.
More recently, the program has returned to its origins with contributions exclusively by children and youth. The current roster of participating groups: Easton Arts Academy Elementary Charter School, Third Street Alliance for Women and Children, Girl Scout Troop 8747, Easton High School, and Wilson High School.
This weather-dependent activity typically occurs between April and November, with each group installation on view for at least four weeks before being painted over by the next group.
The paintings are photographed and shared on Facebook and other social media platforms. Check in regularly for updates, and tag your photos of artworks on Instagram and Twitter with #YMW @ksartstrail.