Faces on the Fenceline at Wistariahurst Museum Outdoor Exhibit Showcase

Wistariahurst Museum is excited to announce the return of our popular outdoor display, Faces on the Fenceline. This outdoor, walking exhibit in the front of the museum features portraits of Black people in New England who have and are currently making history. Visitors can scan the QR code provided at the exhibit to learn more about the people in the portraits and delve deeper into the impactful stories of these remarkable figures. A list of the people in the 2025 Faces on the Fenceline exhibit will also be available to view online at wistariahurst.org. Guests can also learn more information about local prominent Black figures that shaped Holyoke by visiting our archives.

The vibrant, canvas backdrops for the portraits in Faces on the Fenceline were made by visitors at the Juneteenth celebration this summer at Wistariahurst in collaboration with Genuine Culture, adding a unique and sentimental touch to this exhibit. This year, we have had more canvases painted than any previous years, with 32 colorful canvases created by members of the community. This outdoor display is an opportunity for everyone to explore the rich history and contributions of notable Black figures who have shaped our city, New England, and history as a whole. We invite you to experience this free and visually stunning exhibit by strolling past the museum on Beech Street.

Faces on the Fenceline 2025 will be on display starting September 23, 2035 through October, weather permitting. Scan the QR code on the attached graphic or next to the installation to view a list of the people featured in the exhibit and learn more about them! To make an appointment to see the archives and learn more about local prominent Black figures, contact Wistariahurst Museum at [email protected] or call (413)322-5660. Our grounds and gardens are open to the public every day from dawn to dusk so that everyone can explore, discover, and engage with the Faces on the Fenceline exhibit!

 

ABOUT WISTARIAHURST Wistariahurst is an educational and cultural center owned and operated by the City of Holyoke and supported by The Wistariahurst Foundation. Wistariahurst is dedicated to preserving Holyoke’s history and inspiring an appreciation of history and culture through educational programs, exhibits and special events. Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, Wistariahurst is the former home of William Skinner, a prominent silk manufacturer and was built in 1874.

Today, Wistariahurst offers a wide variety of public programs and events including: workshops, concerts, lectures and demonstrations and serves the community through educational programs, community partnerships, history projects, and outreach activities. More information is available at www.Wistariahurst.org.