WINDOWS
OF
UNDERSTANDING
WE SEE THROUGH HATE
Windows of Understanding was founded in 2017 with the vision to transform our “main street” spaces into literal windows of understanding; spaces in which the community can learn about positive strides being made by local organizations around a wide array of social justice issues through art. The project is a creative, community-building response to the negativity and hate perpetuated in our media landscape. Select non-profit organizations are paired with artists and local youth to create site specific art and installations addressing critical issues impacting their daily lives. Our belief is that through visual language, artists can communicate methods of empathetic, solutions-driven storytelling and events in powerful ways that cut across cultural boundaries and invite participation.
"MOBILIZING CHANGE"
This season will focus on initiatives mobilizing both literally and figuratively to provide urgent resources to local communities ranging from food to transportation, hygiene products, healthcare and immigration advocacy. Featured art works will be on display at venues throughout New Brunswick, Highland Park, Metuchen, Perth Amboy, Rahway, and South Plainfield NJ from January 19- March 31, 2026.
Programming such as "Tables of Understanding", hands-on workshops, community conversations, and wellness sessions will complement the visual displays throughout the run.
PRESENTED BY
New Brunswick Community Arts Council
Comprised of leaders from across the Arts sector appointed by the Mayor to serve three year terms, the New Brunswick Community Arts Council exists to promote a diverse range of Art and Culture throughout the city. “Windows of Understanding” is a pilot project that complements the council’s existing programs such as “Paint the Town” and the annual New Brunswick Holiday Market.
Mason Gross School of the Arts at
Rutgers University
Established in 1976, Mason Gross School of the Arts is the flagship public arts conservatory of New Jersey and a division of Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey. Founded in 1766, Rutgers is the nation’s eighth-oldest institution of higher learning, a leading Big Ten public research university with more than 71,000 students, and a member of the prestigious Association of American Universities. The Mason Gross School is home to the departments of Art & Design, Dance, Music, and Theater as well as Rutgers Community Arts, Rutgers Arts Online, the Rutgers Filmmaking Center, and the Rutgers Print Collaborative. The school has an enrollment of approximately 861 undergraduates and 308 graduate students across five disciplines, supported by approximately 324 faculty and 69 staff. Students at Mason Gross hail from 31 states and territories and 23 countries. Mason Gross is one of the most selective schools at Rutgers–New Brunswick, ensuring that students have the opportunity to work closely with accomplished artists in their fields.
The Highland Park Arts Commission
The purpose of the Arts Commission is to support and facilitate cultural programs in Highland Park for the benefit of its residents. Such programs may include, but are not limited to, dance, theatre, music, visual arts, poetry, spoken word, culinary arts, fashion design, paper arts, woodworking and interdisciplinary art forms. Of particular interest to the Arts Commission is both the inclusion of diverse cultural programming and the training of students (of any age) in these art forms.
The Metuchen Arts Council
Established in 1967 to advocate and promote culturally enriching programs which foster an appreciation for the arts in their community, they accomplish our mission by: Sponsoring exciting, innovative and entertaining programs in all arts disciplines; by supporting local artists and arts organizations through grants, sponsorships and networking opportunities; by working with others to create a welcoming community to attract artists and audiences of all ages, backgrounds and cultures; and by being an advocate for arts education at all levels.
ASquared
ASquared is a dynamic collaboration between Ann Marie Williams and Amy Garcia Phillips, harnessing the power of the arts to drive community and economic development. By connecting people, fostering creativity, and cultivating new opportunities, ASquared acts as a catalyst for positive change. Their combined energy is exponential, amplifying their impact and sparking transformation in the communities they serve.