Domenico Mortellito's Protecting our Future is a work of art I've been thinking a lot about lately. When I first started at the Museum I didn't really pay much attention to this particular sculpture. But then, after my daughter was born three years ago, I began to really look at Protecting our Future. I noticed the happy, unburdened expression on the little child's face, and how every muscle in the adult figure's body was straining to hold back a thick, swirling cloud above their heads. Mortellito intended this work to be a commentary on pollution; however, I personally interpret the piece more broadly. Every day parents take on the herculean task of protecting their children so they can explore the world freely and creatively. I think the sculpture illustrates this beautifully. 

 

This task is especially challenging in the middle of a global pandemic. I'm struggling with how to do this with my daughter and newborn son. Sometimes when I get worried or frustrated I think about this sculpture and it brings me a moment of peace. That's why art matters so much in our lives. Art can invoke joy, excitement, calm, or help us process complex ideas and feelings. Every time I experience this I appreciate how our museum makes a difference in the lives of our community. 

 

The Museum's Copeland Sculpture Garden continues to be open for free from dawn to dusk. I encourage you to take a walk through the garden and enjoy Protecting our Future, along with 18 other sculptures and our meditative Labyrinth. You may see me there strolling along with my daughter and the baby. I'll be sure to say hello, from six feet away of course! 

 

Molly Giordano

Interim Executive Director 

We would love to hear from you! 

If you have a work from the Museum you feel passionate about, please share it with us. For ideas, search the Museum collection here. Please send your selection to Cynthia Smith at csmith@delart.org and include the name of your chosen artwork, the artist, and a few words (75 words or less) about why it appeals to you. A selection of favorites will be shared on our email tour.

Connecting people to art is our mission and we strive to improve and enhance our offerings to become a vibrant hub for the community. These uncertain times make it extremely difficult to accomplish these goals. We need your help. Please consider making a tax-deductible contribution to the Museum’s Annual Fund or become a Museum Member, if you are not one already. Thank you so much for your support today and always!