NYC’s Blue Collar Artists Celebrated
Over 100 building service workers’ display their paintings, sculptures and more at 32BJ’s 17th annual art show.
The work of over 100 32BJ SEIU workers, retired members and family of building service workers was on display at the union’s 17th annual art show last June.
The artist security officers, commercial cleaners, residential building service workers, airport workers who submitted their work live in New York, New Jersey, Florida, Philadelphia and Hudson Valley and hail from countries around the world.
The show’s themed painting, “Nothing Is Impossible,” depicts a refugee in search of the American Dream. Works included paintings, photography, film, drawings, collage, poetry and other art forms.
The 32BJ art committee was formed in 2006. The union wanted members to have a forum to showcase their talents. The union showcases members’ talents, to let people know they are not only porters, doormen, cleaners and security officers, but also talented individuals with a passion for expression through art. In 2013, the annual art show was expanded to include members, family and friends of union 1199 SEIU.