Kiki Smith, artist/daughter; Judy Wukitsch, LPMAF President; Susan Napack, LPMAF Treasurer; Jim Sheppard, artist/Smith assistant at Art and Soul Gala
Our Mission
The mission of the Tony Smith Sculpture Project (TSSP) is to make the life, work, and impact of artist Tony Smith easily accessible and beneficial to the public.
Through the support of public art projects, such as Smith’s sculpture TAU, the Lennie Pierro Memorial Arts Foundation (LPMAF), which sponsors the project, seeks to enrich the lives not only of residents of Smith’s hometown, South Orange, but of visitors from all communities.
The on-going work of the TSSP and LPMAF (named after the late artist and art educator, Lennie Pierro of South Orange), is supported chiefly by private donations.
Master Plan
Support Tau
Fundraising efforts for the Tony Smith Sculpture Project started in 2002 and continue today. A 2006 Art & Soul Gala honoring community supporter and visionary, realtor Roy Scott, was attended by Kiki and Seton Smith. In 2007, LPMAF hosted “A Little Night Music,” a community backyard event celebrating the TAU 100, supporters whose donations make them eligible to have their names featured at the sculpture site. A local art collector donated $20,000 to complete the final installation of the sculpture, which took place on November 19, 2008.
Today, fundraising continues through a grant from the New Jersey State Council on the Arts through the Essex County Department of Cultural and Historical Affairs, as well as community and arts-based special events, such as Art Party in the Park, a celebration of Tony Smith’s centennial birthday.
LPMAF has proudly remained a grassroots organization since its inception, with fundraising often commingled with public outreach and educational opportunities. The foundation is grateful for the many smaller donations from scores of passionate supporters, and will continue to generate funding through this approach. Special workshops, collaborations, lectures, and events will continue to provide an introduction to and engagement with Smith, TAU, and the world of contemporary art.
Your on-line donations are essential to help us meet these goals.