Rest. Stop. Imagine.
Art can transform a public space. Art can spark a young mind. And when joined together Art can add an
element of surprise to a simple rest stop, revealing unknown beauty of your journey. The Art Sparks
program brings unexpected excitement to travels on the PA Turnpike, while putting young artists on the
road to success. Rest. Stop. Imagine all the places you could go.
What: Partnership between the Pennsylvania Turnpike Commission and the Pennsylvania Council on the
Arts (PCA) to bring the Arts in Education program to PA Turnpike Service Plazas system-wide. Install a local, student-produced art piece in every Service Plaza system-wide over the next five
years.
Arts in Education: The PCA’s nationally-recognized Arts in Education program works with regional
partners to place experienced teaching artists with educators in schools and community settings across
the commonwealth. PCA teaching artist residencies teach conceptual thinking, visual and creative skills,
promote team work, and engage students of all abilities and learning styles.
Art Sparks: The PTC will partner with PCA to bring their Arts in Education program to the Turnpike. A
school that resides in the municipality of a chosen Service Plaza will be selected by PCA and their
partners to participate in the program with the ultimate goal of installing the art in the Service Plaza as
opposed to, or in addition to, the school. The students will have autonomy in choosing the subject
matter of the final piece.
